February is National Arts Month, making it the perfect time to immerse ourselves in the beauty of Philippine art and culture. As a homeschooling family, we love finding experiences that make learning both exciting and meaningful. This year, we decided to celebrate by visiting the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila on the last Sunday of February. Our two-hour exploration turned out to be a fun and memorable learning experience for the whole family.

Museum Highlights by Floor

The National Museum of Fine Arts is spread across several floors, each featuring different galleries and prominent Filipino artists:

• Ground Floor: Houses various special exhibitions and the Museum Shop.
• Second Floor: Features the iconic Spoliarium by Juan Luna, along with other large-scale works by Félix Resurrección Hidalgo and other 19th-century Filipino painters.
• Third Floor: Showcases masterpieces by Fernando Amorsolo, including his famous pastoral scenes, as well as sculptures by Guillermo Tolentino. Other galleries highlight modern and contemporary Philippine art.
• Fourth Floor: Displays religious art, portraits, and important works from different periods, including pieces from the Spanish colonial era and works influenced by European art movements.

Why Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts?

The National Museum of Fine Arts is a treasure trove of Philippine artistic heritage. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces created by some of the most renowned Filipino artists. Here are several reasons why this makes an excellent field trip destination for students:

1. Rich Cultural and Historical Learning

The museum showcases masterpieces that depict significant moments in Philippine history. Works like Juan Luna’s Spoliarium and Dr. Jose Rizal’s sculpture of the sleeping Josephine Bracken allow students to see history through the eyes of artists, making lessons come alive in a way textbooks cannot.

2. Enhances Appreciation for Filipino Art

Exposing children to different art styles and techniques helps develop their appreciation for creativity and self-expression. Walking through the museum’s galleries, my children and I were fascinated by the intricate details in each piece. We were also inspired and motivated to spend more time honing our drawing and painting skills.

3. Encourages Critical Thinking and Interpretation

Art invites discussion and interpretation. Observing various artworks allows students to reflect on the messages conveyed by artists and connect them to historical and cultural contexts.

4. Affordable and Accessible Learning Opportunity

Admission to the museum is free from Monday to Sunday, making it a budget-friendly educational trip for families and students. The museum’s location in Manila makes it accessible for many, whether by public or private transportation.

5. Hands-On and Visual Learning Experience

Unlike traditional classroom learning, museums offer an immersive, multi-sensory experience. Seeing life-sized paintings and sculptures up close allows students to engage with art in a more impactful way than simply viewing images in a book.

Our Family’s Experience

During our visit, we took our time appreciating the exhibits, discussing the stories behind the artworks, and taking in the breathtaking details of each masterpiece. The hall featuring Juan Luna’s Spoliarium was particularly captivating because of the painting’s size.

Our field trip was also perfect because we were studying Ancient Greek civilization at the time. The museum’s architectural design features Greek columns, giving us a glimpse into classical architecture. Additionally, we saw sculptures with Greek-inspired designs, reinforcing our lessons on how Greek art has influenced various cultures, including the Philippines.

We ended our museum tour with a newfound appreciation for Filipino artistry and its role in shaping our national identity.

Tips for Families

This field trip is ideal for children aged 7 and above. Younger children may still enjoy the visit, but older kids and teens will better appreciate the historical and artistic significance of the artworks.

Do’s and Don’ts for a Smooth Visit

Before heading to the museum, it’s good to brief kids on proper behavior to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit.

✅ Do’s:

• Walk quietly and respectfully in the galleries.
• Observe the artworks from a safe distance.
• Ask questions and discuss observations in a low voice.
• Bring a notebook to jot down interesting insights.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking.

❌ Don’ts:

• Do not touch the artworks or lean on the display cases.
• Avoid running, shouting, or playing inside the museum.
• Refrain from eating or drinking inside the exhibition areas.
• Flash photography is not allowed in most galleries.

By preparing children with these simple guidelines, families can have a meaningful and enjoyable visit to the National Museum of Fine Arts.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an educational and inspiring field trip for your children, I highly recommend a visit to the National Museum of Fine Arts. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate National Arts Month or simply to deepen your children’s appreciation for Philippine culture. Whether you’re homeschooling or not, this museum offers a valuable experience that all students should have at least once.

After enjoying the sunset view at the facade of the museum, we proceeded to Mall of Asia and enjoyed a delightful dinner at Café Mediterranean. While waiting for our order, we reviewed our photos and discussed more about Greek influences in art over delicious Mediterranean dishes. This trip reinforced the importance of incorporating real-world learning experiences into our homeschooling journey.

Have you visited the National Museum of Fine Arts with your family? Share your experiences in the comments below!