(Critical Thinking)

Objective: Observe manifestations of ethnocentrism in different societies by constructing

a data retrieval chart.
Directions: Using the three premises of art aesthetics of Alice Guillermo, write a short
critique on the material presented below. Then, answer the following guide questions.

Nina Inabel's face masks feature traditional Inabel

textile hand-woven by the local artisans from the
Cordilleras in Northern Luzon. The face masks
feature waterproof lining, so droplets won’t be
absorbed by the fabric. Plus, each mask has a nose
grip which keeps it from sliding down your face—less
chances of you accidentally touching your face. By
purchasing a face mask, you’re also supporting the
livelihood of Nina Inabel’s partner weavers in Ilocos.

1. Do you think that the structures and compositions of the fabric make the face masks
unique? Why?

Yes, I do believe that the structures and compositions of the fabric make the face
masks unique due to it being the only mask, known to my own knowledge, that looks as
such. The composition of the face masks undeniably brings forth new flavor to a
seemingly boring wear for a year now. The blending of the colors is amazing is uncanny
with such unity. It also stands out with its design but it does not affect the functionality of
the face mask – a characteristic seemingly ignored when creating a modern designed
face mask.

2.Does the face mask represent the rituals and traditions of Filipinos? Explain.

Yes, I do believe that the face mask represents the rituals and traditions of Filipinos.
As we can clearly see in the description of the product, the face mask features traditional
Inabel textile hand-woven by the local artisans from Cordilleras in Northern Luzon. This is
the very meaning of traditional. It does not stop there. Even though we use ‘lacking
technology’ in this kind of face mask, they still have the capability to absorb liquid which
is a necessity for the functions of face masks. Although it is certainly not as effective as
face masks endorsed by medical professionals, they do substitute for its lack of
abundance. This is a proof of resourcefulness and ingenuity of Filipinos.
3. Is it appropriate to sell the masks commercially? Why?

As long as it is approved by the institutions that manage and assess the capabilities
of face masks and if they function as efficiently as, at the very least, the worst of them, I
do not find any reason why not. Letting theses face masks sell commercially will directly
improve the capability of our people to supply themselves with face masks – an object
that has become a staple in our daily clothing. This will also address the support needed
for local artists in Cordillera and help them for their finance. There are also indirect effect
such as but not limited to the shifting of mindset of how Filipino works are worse than
foreign imports.

SHORT CRITIQUE:

UNACCEPTABLE
CONTENT The true meaning of the art
before it was transformed to be a
face mask may be undermined
and disregarded. The textile was
not made to be a face mask and
therefore has its own content that
might have deliberately
forgotten.
CULTURAL These textiles have certain
importance for their own value.
Such cultural relevance should
never be neglected when
debating if such action is
acceptable or otherwise. Arts of
some tribe are believed to host
spirits and therefore they believe
that it will bring them ill fortune to
blemish their sacred work
AESTHETICS The aesthetics of the work they
have done was made to relish
the dream or belief they have.
They should not be used as face
masks because their beauty will
be dirtied.
ACCEPTABLE
The art itself is ingenious. Due
to how it looks and how it
reflects the meaning for its art:
face masks. Since it will help
everyone the inability of others
to buy commercialized
products this will help our
cause.
The cultural aspect of arts is
attributed to the Philippine
culture. People does not view
the art as something that is
sacred. Since they do not
believe in such beliefs, they
are free to do what they want
to that certain piece of art.
The aesthetics of the art will
only further encourage
people to buy face masks and
the original art itself. Two birds
can be realized in one move.

The art’s structure itself is very ingenious if of itself because of how it looks in the
perspective of the wearer. The art gives a home-friendly vibe. As for its social, historical
situation and used materials, it is very safe to say that it reflects Filipino ingenuity without
a doubt. From its resourcefulness to its practicality, this work is definitely socially, and
historically aligned with how Filipinos do their work. The aesthetic side of the face mask is
definitely dependent on how the wearer wears it. Taking all of that into account we also
need to understand that this may have cultural restrictions that cannot be used.