Govt Board Examination for Architects, 7th place, 1961
Known for
Figurative Expressionism
Spouse
Bettina Rodriguez Olmedo
Children
Gisella Olmedo-Araneta
Francesca Olmedo-Arias
Onib Olmedo (July 7, 1937 – September 8, 1996) was a Filipino painter acclaimed by critics as one of the major Filipino artists of the 20th century. Olmedo created a body of works that utilizes the expressionist technique of distortion to portray the inner torment experienced by modern man.
His paintings are characterized by an implosive impact but have an uplifting and ennobling quality, celebrating the triumph of the human spirit in the face of pain and anguish. At the same time, they are social commentaries with touches of wit and irony – reflections of the artist's quintessential, down-to-earth humor. The subjects of his paintings were the denizens of Sampaloc and Ermita, including musicians, prostitutes, vendors and waiters, as well as people from the upper strata like society matrons, corporate executives and ballerinas.
Olmedo died in 1996 when he was only 59 years old. His impact in the art scene continues to be felt on this day, as evidenced by a whole new generation of artists who are self-confessed Olmedo disciples, producing works inspired by their icon's distinctive style, and putting up exhibitions that have paid homage to their late master.
Career
1959–1961 Architect, Pablo Antonio & Associates
1961–1963 Architect, Pacific Merchandising Co.
1963–1968 Architect, Private practice
1959–1996 Weekend Job - Racing Judge and Steward, Manila Jockey Club
1969–1996 Full-time Artist
Awards
Year
Award
1979
Gold Medalist
Art Association of the Philippines Annual Competition
1980
Gold Medalist
Mobil Art Awards
1981
Gold Medalist
Art Association of the Philippines Annual Competition
