Filipino heritage and artistry are once again under the spotlight as Likha makes a comeback this June. In celebration of the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence, the second leg of the Filipino exhibit and convention dedicated to celebrating local traditional crafts finds a new home and features other artisans from different fields.
Likha 2, which runs until June 13 at the SMX Aura - Convention Center in Taguig City, features not only handwoven pieces but also introduces a wider array of traditional crafts such as embroidery, basket making, stone carving, shell crafting, and pottery from all over the country.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos
Through the help of the Office of the First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, the showcase aims "to provide an avenue for communication, innovation, and co-creation in order to enrich our Filipino crafts" and to "help our local economy and eventually compete in the global market."
“We’ve expanded our exhibit to showcase not only the talented weavers, but also our skilled embroiderers, basket makers, stone carvers, pottery makers, shell craft, and everything else under the sun even the flowers,” the First Lady said. “This is in keeping with the words of my husband, Pres. Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., during his State of the Nation Address last year when he said, ‘The creativity of the Filipinos is world-class.’ We excel in arts and culture and everything Filipino. Our Likha initiative is in working progress, and we hope that you will join us in Likha 3, 4, 5, and 6.”
During the launch of the convention, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle got to know some of the artisans, whose passion, talent, and dedication have kept local crafts alive.
Joevel Francisco and pieces from Uswag Artesano
Joevel Francisco
One of the artisans of Leyte-based Uswag Artesano, Joevel Francisco started his journey in basket weaving at the age of 13. What he uses for his products are bamboo, anahaw, and tikog, among others, which are sourced in Leyte and Samar. Apart from baskets, Joevel and the skilled craftsmen of Leyte produce banigs, market totes, and even bobo-inspired lamps, which could take months to finish depending on the product, from the preparation of the materials to the weaving process.
Siegrid Bangyay and Ma. Fe Terisa Valle and their earthenware products
Siegrid Bangyay and Ma. Fe Terisa Valle
Hailed from Sagada, Siegrid Bangyay and Ma. Fe Terisa Valle brings to the convention their masterpieces made from clay. Siegrid started doing pottery 21 years ago, creating pieces inspired by her culture and the environment. She then passed on her knowledge to Fe, who has been making decorative art out of clay for seven years. Their process can take up to three months, from molding to putting their pieces in the kiln. They use soil from Sagada for their earthenware products and a mixture of minerals and pine ash for the glaze.
Jason Domling weaving his latest piece
Jason Domling
It is hard not to notice Jason Domling at the convention doing his masterworks while wearing his traditional garb, showcasing his indigenous tattoo. The Baguio-based artisan has been doing weaved crafts out of kawayan and rattan since his elementary days. Present at his booth are his woven bags, baskets, and other handmade home ornaments.
Shiela Soliveres and Michael Cabrera
Shiela Soliveres and Michael Cabrera
Graduates of the Escuela Taller in Intramuros, Manila are Shiela Soliveres and Michael Cabrera. The two trained under the tutelage of Mexican master masons and sculptors Maria Buendia and Nicanor Nequiz. For three years, Shiela and Michael have been helping in restoring heritage pieces and creating sculptures out of limestone and adobe.
Luis Ac-ac and his wood sculptures
Luis Ac-ac
At the age of 71, Luisito Ac-ac continues to produce the finest sculptures made of wood. Hailed from Paete, Laguna, Luisito, simply called Mang Luis, is best known for his interpretation of Philippine folklore, children at play, religious images, and depiction of human anatomy. He started woodcarving in 1977. His process begins by creating 2D stencils before working on the batikuling wood. To this day, the master sculptor, together with his family, runs the Museo Ac-ac, a non-profit institution in Paete featuring his wood and ivory sculptures.
Tomas Ramirez and Ramirez Mirror and Metal Crafts' pieces
Tomas Ramirez
Apart from being the center of religion, local churches also house the crafts of many Filipino artisans, among them are metal sculptures. We see it in the form of altar frontals, vessels, candelabras, carrozas, and reliquaries. One of the many who continue to pound and bend metal to become intricately designed products is Tomas Ramirez. The proprietor behind Ramirez Mirror and Metal Crafts, Tomas has been in the industry for over 30 years. His company's products are made of brass and silver, among others, and have been featured in churches and processions in Cebu, Rizal, Cavite, Pampanga, etc.
To know more about Likha 2, visit @likha.communityon Instagram.
Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? Send us a message on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter and let’s talk about it.