Jeho Bitancor, Luksong-Tinik (Jumping Over Thorns), 2005

Jeho Bitancor (Filipino, b. 1967) is a contemporary artist known for his socially engaged practice, spanning painting, performance, and mixed media. Born in Baler, Aurora, Philippines, he studied at the University of the Philippines before furthering his artistic education at the Art Students League in New York in 1997. His works often grapple with themes of imperialism, capitalism, and social inequality, reflecting his deep concern for the socio-political landscape of his home country.

His practice is deeply rooted in Filipino identity and collective memory, using layered visual narratives to challenge viewers’ perspectives on societal structures. Recognised as one of the Cultural Centre of the Philippines’ 13 Artist Awardees in 2006, Bitancor has exhibited widely across Southeast Asia and the United States. His works are held in major collections, including the Singapore Art Museum and the Ateneo Art Gallery, solidifying his reputation as a vital voice in contemporary Filipino art.

In this painting, Luksong-tinik, a traditional Filipino game, becomes a metaphor for resilience and struggle, its imagery carrying religious undertones reminiscent of crucifixion. The contrast between youthful play and the oppressive urban backdrop underscores the economic hardships faced by many in the Philippines, where poverty forces children into precarious realities. Through this work, Bitancor highlights the endurance of the human spirit amid adversity.