Indigenous Art Studies (2019)
Tribal tattooing and baybayin script were fundamental aspects of indigenous Filipino culture. Tattoos were earned and each symbol carried great meaning. Unfortunately, this tradition faded during the rise of Spanish colonization and is currently endangered. The goal for this series is to bring awareness of this beautiful form of art, expression, and culture.
Kapamilya [Family]
This piece emphasizes the importance of family and community in Philippine culture. Kapamilya includes blood relatives AND non-blood friends who you consider family. The symbols on the bottom half represent wishes of prosperity and abundance for your family on Earth, while the birds at the top call for strength and guidance from ancestors watching over you.
Diyosa [Goddess]
This piece represents femininity and the female role as mother, creator, and epicenter of the family. It also touches on the importance of fertility as the offspring to life. The hands—the part of the woman that was traditionally tattooed—are shown cradling a lingling-o, the symbol for fertility and reproductive organs of a woman.
Mandirigma [Warrior]
This piece represents the male figure’s role as warrior and protector. The patterns reflect how the tattoos were marked on the male body: curves at the top were always printed on the chest and shoulders, and linear patterns were printed on the arms and legs.
