Toym Imao’s ‘Casafuego’ merges pop culture with history

Regardless of articulation or advances in technology, the action figures of pop culture continue to capture the imagination of children and adults alike—much like the actual heroes of Philippine history, many of whom gave their lives for their country.

Sculptor Toym Imao, set designer for Nicanor Tiongson's steampunk musical "Mabining Mandirigma," combines real and imagined heroes in "Casafuego", an art installation on exhibit at the Cultural Center of the Philippines during the musical's run at the CCP's Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo.

The sculptures stand taller than grown men to reflect the stature of the historical figures they depict, regardless of their villainy or heroism, while children sit at the base of each figure with makeshift toys and flames carried by some depict anonymous faces.

Notable among these is the centerpiece, which poses the trifecta of Jose Rizal, Apolinario Mabini, and Andres Mabini as 80's mecha favorites Voltes V, Daimos, and Voltron, standing behind a bonfire of giant matchsticks. — Rie Takumi/BM, GMA News

Casafuego is on exhibit at the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Bulwagang Carlos Francisco (Little Theater Lobby) until March 14.