The Philippine Pegasus or more popularly known as "The Pegaraw" is a sculpture representing a hybrid between a Philippine tamaraw
and Pegasus, a winged horse in Greek mythology. It is located in front
of the UPLB Main Library(image above) where it was erected as the National Artist Napoleon Abueva's answer to former President Fidel Ramos' call for inspiration to the Filipino people as they face the upcoming challenges of the new millenium (2000 CE). With as little detailed information available to us, let us attempt to analyse this image by way of the semiotic planes of analysis.
The Basic Plane: unfortunately, very little is mentioned in references and articles regarding the physical aspects of the Pegaraw. Even with regards to the medium used, we can only speculate about the material, perhaps,
judging by its color (reddish brown) and by the
master's familiarity with the medium, one may assume that it is made of bronze.
The Iconic Plane: The image is one of a beast atop a pedestal to signify dominance over other objects in its surroundings, higher aspirations and accentuation. It is also unlike the more popular images of sculptures which represent humanoids. Full form of the beast alluding to the totality of its attributes. strong, independent and focuses its gaze upwards while in a takeoff position ready to meet the skies, beyond the limits of its terrestrial half. It is placed in front of the Main Library facing those who enter the structure, beckoning it to achieve greater heights in their pursuit of knowledge.
The Contextual Plan:
The Evaluative Plane:
Source:
This is my visual interpretation of Emile Zola's definition of art in which he states that it is..." ..a corner of creation seen through a temperament".
