Beware of fake Nunelucio Alvarado artworks, wife warns public, art connoisseurs

SALLY ALVARADO. The wife of National Artist Nunelucio Alvarado warns the public of fake artworks attributed to her husband

Ambo Delilan/Rappler

Counterfeit artwork attributed to Nunelucio Alvarado proliferate after conferment as National Artist

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines – “Beware of fake Nunelucio Alvarado artworks,” warns his wife, Rosalia Alvarado.

In an interview on October 1, Sally said that just days after her husband was proclaimed one of this year’s National Artists, their family received reports on the alleged proliferation of fake paintings attributed to him at high prices.

She said that fake paintings, allegedly labeled as the work of her husband also known as “Maestro Nunelucio” are reportedly being sold in Cebu.

Because of this, they were compelled to issue a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) for all her husband’s creations.

According to Sally, art enthusiasts across the country have already gone to the Alvarado residence in Purok Bougainvillea in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, with their bought artworks just to secure a COA.

As a married couple and art buddies for almost five decades, Sally can easily spot her husband’s original artworks.

Sally said her husband’s artworks mostly focus on social realism and activism, highlighting the plight and struggles of farm workers and other marginalized sectors. It’s this portrayal of social injustice and exploitation that Sally says has allowed her husband’s artworks to stand out.

Sally said they were grateful that Nunelucio was included among this year’s National Artists.

“It was a great honor coupled with great privileges,” Sally said.

As much as they want to bring the 76-year-old artist during the awarding rites at Malacañang, the artist is currently dealing with health issues.

Nunelucio developed dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic, and was recently diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB), which prompted his doctor to forbid any visitors from visiting him at home. Nunelucio is still able to recognize people, but can only say ‘hi’ and “hello,” says the wife, who provides care for her husband. – Rappler.com