AAF’s initial collection is built on mid-20th century artworks by Filipino artists who are often described as members of the so-called Mabini School. Never a formally organized group of artists, the Mabini School derived its name from the art galleries in the Mabini area of Manila City. Their practice tended toward realist and academic painting. The artists who set up shops in Mabini had American soldiers, tourists, and expats as their main clients. It was not unusual that copies and variations of an artwork exist, as some themes proved more popular than others.