TCL unveiled its new A400 Series QD-MiniLED TVs in Manila by transforming Fernando Amorsolo's classic paintings into moving digital art—and donated electronics to local heritage institutions along the way.

TCL chose an unconventional venue for its latest TV launch: the Centro de Turismo Intramuros in Manila. Timed to coincide with the Philippines' 128th Independence Day, the "Heritage in Every Frame" event paired the debut of the TCL A400M and A400 Pro TVs with a digital art exhibit honoring National Artist Fernando Amorsolo.

Rather than the usual product demo, guests walked through a gallery where Amorsolo's most famous paintings played out in motion across TCL's QD-MiniLED screens.

"The TCL A400 Series represents our vision of what home entertainment can become, not simply a device for viewing content, but a centerpiece that enhances the living space even when not in use," said TCL CEO Peter Chen.

Eight Amorsolo works anchored the exhibit, including Carabao Riding in Sunset, Noonday Meal, Tinikling, Dalagang Bukid, The Blind Man, Fruit Market, and the wartime piece Bataan. Each was digitally animated by artist Mark Cañega and displayed on the A400 Series' high-contrast panels.

Cañega described the project as a balancing act between innovation and reverence for the source material: "Animating the masterpieces of National Artist Fernando Amorsolo is an incredible honor and a unique technical challenge. His paintings are not static; they are vibrant snapshots of moving wind, flowing rivers, and rural Filipino life. To honor his legacy, we ensured the animation feels like a moving canvas rather than a cartoon. Every frame is carefully optimized to preserve Amorsolo’s signature use of glowing sunlight and warm colors, matching the beautiful texture of the original oil paintings perfectly on the TCL A400 screen."

It should be noted that animations techniques such as these have existed. And while Cañega didn't specify what applications he used, he swore that none of the artworks had been fed through AI.

TCL brought in actress Heaven Peralejo, content creator Jenny Yeo, and Ms. Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo for a panel discussion on the new TVs.

Peralejo was struck by how convincingly the screen mimicked real canvas: "At first, I didn't even realize I was looking at a television—I thought it was an actual painting. The screen captures the texture, details, and raw emotion so flawlessly that the essence of the original artwork remains intact. It truly captures humanity, reflecting the remarkable endurance of Filipinos during those times."

Yeo pointed to the TV's art gallery mode as her favorite feature: "My absolute favorite feature is the art gallery mode. Growing up, I always watched TV, but now I love that this mode allows me to display beautiful, available paintings instead of a blank screen. It strikes the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics. As a mom, I genuinely enjoy having this in our home, which is why I really want the TCL A400 Series TV."

Manalo focused on how naturally the tech blended into the historic setting: "The TCL A400 Series brings a modern touch to the museum experience. It seamlessly integrates with today's technology, effectively bridging our rich culture and heritage with modern innovation. In fact, when you look at the TV, it doesn't even feel like a typical piece of modern technology—it blends in like a piece of art."

Beyond the launch, TCL donated TVs and air conditioning units to several institutions within the walled city, including the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, the Intramuros Information Center, the iMAKE History Fortress LEGO Education Center, and the Fr. Luis G. Merino, O.S.A. Library.

Intramuros Administrator Atty. Joan Padilla welcomed the partnership: "The Intramuros Administration is deeply grateful for opportunities such as this, where modern innovation and creative technology become bridges that connect our people with their roots and deepen their appreciation of the cultural heritage that defines us as a nation. Through new and dynamic mediums, we are able to breathe fresh life into the masterpieces of our National Artists, allowing their stories to reach and inspire a new generation of Filipinos."

TCL Director of Sales Cyd Montebon framed the event as a reflection of the brand's broader philosophy: "The TCL A400 Series exhibit has shown us how innovation can create new ways to experience and appreciate Filipino heritage. Through the TCL A400 Series, we have had the opportunity to see the timeless works of Fernando Amorsolo presented in a format that connects art, culture, and modern living. This exhibit reflects TCL's commitment to creating technology that not only enhances everyday experiences but also inspires meaningful connections through creativity and self-expression."