Lamberto Hechanova (b. 1939, Iloilo, Philippines) is a Filipino painter, printmaker, and sculptor whose career reflects both modernist innovation and cultural depth. He graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas, and quickly established himself as one of the pioneering figures of Philippine contemporary art.
Hechanova held his first solo exhibition at the Northern Motors Showroom in 1966, marking the beginning of a distinguished career. In 1969, he represented the Philippines at the Sixth Paris Biennale, affirming his place on the international stage.
Known for his experimentation with materials, Hechanova introduced the combined use of aluminum with wood and plexiglass in a series of innovative sculptures. His works are characterized by bold abstraction, dynamic compositions, and a mastery of form and color.
His achievements include winning First Prize for “Perspectus” (1967) and a major award for “Allegory in Aluminum” (1968) from the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP). He also won Fourth Prize for “Variety No. 1” and a Certificate of Merit for “The Final Agony” at the Shell National Students Art Competition (1966). In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, he was named one of the recipients of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Thirteen Artists Award in 1970.
Hechanova’s works have been exhibited widely, including at the Philippine Center New York, where they were presented alongside fellow Filipino artists in the diaspora.
