Guillermo Estrella Tolentino, celebrated as the "Father of Philippine Arts," was a renowned sculptor and educator whose contributions to Philippine art are unparalleled. Born on July 24, 1890, in Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines, Tolentino's life was a testament to his passion for art and education.

 

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Early Life and Education

    Tolentino was the fourth of eight children to Isidro Flores Tolentino, a tailor, and Balbina Estrella. His artistic inclinations began early, with his father's musical talents influencing his creative side. However, it was sculpting that truly captured his heart. He would often mold horses and dogs from clay found near local fishponds.

 

    Tolentino attended Malolos Intermediate School, where he received his first drawing lessons from Mrs. H.A. Bordner. He later attended Malolos High School for two years before transferring to Manila High School in Intramuros. During this time, he also attended the School of Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines, studying painting under Vicente Rivera and later sculpture under Vicente Francisco.

   

    In 1915, Tolentino graduated with honors in painting and sculpture, winning prizes in all subjects. His interest in sculpture soon surpassed his interest in painting.

International Studies

 

    In 1919, Tolentino traveled to the United States, initially working as a waiter in Washington, D.C. His small statue, "Peace," caught the attention of Bernard Baruch, who offered him a scholarship to study at the Ecole de Beaux Arts in New York. There, he worked as a messenger and assistant to sculptor Gutzon Borglum. In 1921, he graduated with honors and moved to Europe.

 

   Tolentino spent time in London, Paris, and Rome. In Rome, he enrolled at the Regge Instituto Superiore di Belle Arti di Roma, graduating with highest honors in 1923. During his stay, he created "Saluto Romano," which won second prize in a sculptural competition.

 

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Adult Life and Career

   Tolentino returned to the Philippines in 1925 and established his studio in Manila. In 1926, he was appointed as an instructor in sculpture at the University of the Philippines' School of Fine Arts.

 

   Some of his most famous works include the Bonifacio Monument, symbolizing the Filipino cry for independence, and The Oblation, representing academic freedom at the University of the Philippines. He also created bronze figures of President Quezon and life-size busts of Jose Rizal.

 

   Tolentino was awarded the National Artist Award for Sculpture in 1973.

 

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Personal Life

   He married Paz Tolentino and had a daughter named Lualhati Rodriguez.

 

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Later Life

  Tolentino continued to teach and create art, eventually becoming the Director of the School of Fine Arts. He was named Professor Emeritus in 1955 after his resignation. Guillermo Tolentino passed away on July 12, 1976, at the age of 85 in Quezon City, Metro Manila, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of artists.