The “Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana” mural, which translates to “Golden History, Golden Heritage,” is an essential piece of cultural art in the Historic Filipinotown of Los Angeles. It is one of the most giant Filipino-American murals in the United States.
The Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana Mural in Los Angeles
| Artist | Eliseo Art Silva |
|---|---|
| Address | 1660 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026 |
| Size | 140′ X 20′ ft |
| Medium | Acrylic |
| Date | 1995 |
| Type | Historic Cultural |
The Street View of Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana
This mural, created by artists Eliseo Art Silva and assistants, was unveiled in 1995 and is significant for its rich depiction of Filipino-American history and the Filipino diaspora’s contributions to the United States. The artwork celebrates notable figures from Filipino history, as well as important moments in the Philippines’ past and the Filipino-American experience.
The mural is sprawling and detailed, measuring approximately 25 feet high and 145 feet long. It depicts scenes and influential individuals ranging from pre-colonial times to the contemporary period, including native life before Spanish colonization, the struggle for independence from Spain, and the influence of the United States on the Philippine Islands.
Some key figures and events represented in the mural include:
- Lapu-Lapu who is considered the first Filipino hero for resisting Spanish colonization.
- José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, who became a symbol of resistance against Spanish rule through his writings.
- Filipino farm workers in California, who played a pivotal role in the farm labor movement in the United States, particularly in the Delano grape strike alongside leaders like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta.
The mural also features symbolic elements, such as the bahay kubo (traditional Filipino nipa hut), the sun from the Philippine national flag, and scenes from the Philippine Revolution and the People Power Revolution, which toppled the Marcos dictatorship in 1986.
“Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana” serves as a visual education in the contributions of Filipinos to American society and a reminder of the rich heritage they bring with them. It is an essential stop for anyone interested in the cultural tapestry of Los Angeles and serves as a point of pride within the Filipino community.
Take a Mural Tour in Los Angeles
About the Artist: Eliseo Art Silva
Eliseo Art Silva is known for his work that often explores themes of cultural identity, history, and community. His murals are celebrated for their ability to tell complex stories and for presenting historical narratives through visually compelling means.
Silva, who studied at the Philadelphia College of Art (now University of the Arts) and received a BFA in painting with honors, has a body of work that includes public art, paintings, and illustrations. His work is informed by a deep understanding of cultural symbolism, which he uses to weave a rich tapestry of the Filipino-American experience.
Mural Details:
- Address: The mural is at 1660 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026. This site places it in the heart of Historic Filipinotown, making it accessible to the community it represents and visitors from around the world.
- Size: Measuring a massive 140 feet by 20 feet, this mural commands the viewer’s attention and has ample space to represent a panoramic view of Filipino-American history and life.
- Medium: The mural is painted in acrylic, allowing for bright, durable colours that have withstood the test of time, continuing to be a vivid and inspiring spectacle.
- Date: Created in 1995, the mural dates back over a quarter-century, marking it as an established piece of cultural heritage in Los Angeles.
- Type: It is classified as a Historic-Cultural mural, emphasizing its significance in capturing and commemorating the history and cultural contributions of the Filipino community.
Cultural Significance:
The mural’s location in Historic Filipinotown is itself symbolic. The City of Los Angeles designated the area to acknowledge the dense population of Filipino-Americans in the district and their impact on the city. As a piece of historic cultural artwork, the mural functions as an educational tool, a source of community pride, and a destination for cultural tourism. It not only beautifies the urban landscape but also informs and inspires its viewers by celebrating the rich history of the Philippines and the legacy of Filipino Americans.