Melinda J. Irvine

Art in Rizal Park Manila

Melinda J. Irvine
the execution of jose rizal - art memorial - manila

Inside Rizal Park Manila is a confronting piece of art depicting the execution ceremony of Dr José Rizal by the Spanish Army in 1896. It’s a surreal encounter wandering between executioners and victim.

This installation art magnifies the size and height of each person and reduces the size of observers. Whether you feel connected or not to the story, it’s a powerful experience.

“I’ll go where there are no slaves, tyrants or hangmen. Where faith does not kill and where God alone does reign.”

José Rizal

According to historians, Dr Rizal requested to face the firing squad but was ordered to turn his back against the Filipino soldiers of the Spanish army. A backup force of regular Spanish Army troops were on standby to shoot the executioners should they fail to obey the orders of the commander.

The art piece by Ildefonso Paez Santos captures the moment Dr Rizal was shot by Filipino soldiers under the command of the Spanish Army. It also captures the regular army waiting behind, the quivering dog, the drums, and the clergy.

© 2018 Melinda J. Irvine

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