REPORTERS: RAMMY LAURON and RUFFA MAE J.

GERNEL

Textile Art - What is it?

Textile art is a type of art where people create things using fibers. These fibers can come from different
sources like plants (cotton), animals (wool), or even synthetic materials. Instead of using traditional
materials like paint or clay, artists use these fibers to make their art.

Origins of Textile Art - Where did it come from?

way back in really, really old times, even before we had written history. People started making art with
fibers because it helped them in their everyday lives. They used it to make clothes to stay warm or to
create things that protected them. So, textile art started not just as something pretty to look at but also
to solve practical problems.

Where does the word come from?

The word "textiles" comes from Latin, and it means 'woven' or 'to weave.' This makes sense because a
lot of textile art involves weaving fibers together to create something new and interesting.

So, in a nutshell, textile art is about creating cool stuff using different kinds of fibers, and it's been
around for a super long time, starting with people using it for everyday needs and evolving into a form
of creative expression.

Examples of Textile Art - What do people make?

People create a lot of cool things with textile art. Imagine big, colorful wall hangings called tapestries,
cozy rugs, warm quilts, and the clothes you wear every day. Also, important things like flags and military
uniforms are made using textile art to show status or remember important events.

Where do the materials come from?

The materials for textile art can come from different places. Some come from plants like cotton and
bamboo, some from animals like wool and silk, and even some from minerals like asbestos and glass
fiber. There are also man-made materials like nylon, polyester, acrylic, and rayon that artists use.

How do they make it?

There are different ways to make textile art. Some use traditional methods like weaving, which is like a
special way of braiding threads together using a machine called a loom. Others use knitting, which is like
creating patterns with needles and yarn. And there's also embroidery, where artists stitch beautiful
designs using a needle.
Knitting - What's special about it?

Knitting is a type of textile art where you use special needles to create patterns in fabric. It's like making
a cozy sweater or a warm scarf. People all over the world have their own ways of knitting, and it's kind
of like a cultural art form.

Why is it important in different cultures?

Different cultures have their own unique ways of making textiles. For example, think about the beautiful
Chinese silks or the intricate patterns in Turkish rugs. These are special ways that people express their
culture and create things that are meaningful to them.

Contemporary Textile Art - What's happening now?

Even today, artists are still using textiles in really cool ways. They're not just sticking to the old methods;
they're trying new and exciting things. Imagine artists using fibers and textiles to create modern and
innovative pieces that you might see in a museum or a gallery. So, textile art isn't just ancient history -
it's something that's always changing and evolving!

Yarns and Threads - What are they?

Okay, imagine making a drawing with a pencil. Now, instead of a pencil, think about using threads or
yarns to create things. These threads are like super-thin strings, and yarns are a bunch of threads
twisted together. People use these in different ways, like sewing, weaving, and knitting, to make all sorts
of cool stuff.

Sewing - How does it work?

So, sewing is like using a needle and thread to stick pieces of fabric together. It's like magic with a
needle! You can also make things look fancier by adding designs on the surface, which is called
embroidery. It's like coloring on fabric to make it look extra special.

Embroidery - What's that?

Embroidery is a fancy word for decorating fabric with colorful pictures and patterns. It's like turning a
plain piece of cloth into a work of art. The word itself comes from French and means making something
more beautiful by adding stuff to it. People use embroidery to jazz up things like hats, coats, and
dresses, making them look super cool.

Knitting - How does it work?

Now, knitting is a bit different. It's like making fabric with yarn and big needles. You don't need a fancy
machine for this - just your hands and some yarn. It's one of the oldest ways to make fabric, and you can
take it with you anywhere because it's super portable.

Knitting Machines - Do they exist?

While people mostly knit by hand, there are also machines that can do it. But let's stick to the basics.
Knitting involves looping yarn through more yarn in a special way. You end up with something stretchy
and comfy, perfect for making clothes and cozy blankets.

Yarnbombing

taking knitting to the streets! Yarnbombing is like turning everyday things in the neighborhood, like
cars, bicycles, and trees, into a colorful, knitted wonderland. It's a way for artists to show off their
knitting skills in public spaces, making the world a more creative and cozy place.

Philippine Textile Art - What's Special About It?

What Makes it Different?

In the Philippines, the way they weave isn't just about the art itself. It's about the stories and traditions
that come with it. Imagine living in a place where everyone is connected by these vibrant patterns and
designs. It's like having a super colorful and strong community where people are tied together by their
creativity and the stories woven into their fabrics.

Why is it Important?

This weaving culture isn't just about making things look nice. It's a big part of their history and tradition.
It's like a living tradition because it's passed down from one generation to another. So, when you see
those colorful patterns, you're not just looking at pretty designs; you're seeing a community's history
and creativity all woven together

So, Philippine textile art is like a special kind of art where people create beautiful patterns by weaving
fabrics. But it's not just about making things look good; it's about bringing people together, telling
stories, and keeping traditions alive. It's like a colorful thread that ties a whole community into one big,
creative family.

Indigenous Art - T’boli and T’nalak Weaving

there's this super special art form called T'nalak weaving. It's not just about making pretty things; it's like
telling stories and connecting with the past. Let's break it down:

What's T'nalak?

So, there's this awesome tribe called the T'boli, and they make something called T'nalak. It's not just any
cloth; it's like a masterpiece created by special weavers. Imagine a deep brown fabric with intricate
designs, and guess what? The patterns are inspired by dreams.
How's it Made?

Making T'nalak isn't a quick job. It takes months! First, they get this tough plant called abaca, clean it up,
and dye it using natural colors. Then, the real magic happens – they weave it into beautiful patterns,
usually in red, brown, and black tones.

Why is it Important?

T'nalak isn't just about making cool designs. It's part of the T'boli tribe's history and culture. According to
them, the designs come from dreams passed down through generations. They use T'nalak for special
occasions like marriages and births – it's like their cultural superhero fabric

Cool Traditions:

Imagine if stepping over your friend's artwork made them sick – that's a bit like T'nalak. They believe it
brings bad vibes. And cutting the cloth is a big no-no unless you do it the right way. Even selling it
involves attaching a brass ring to keep the spirits happy.

Artistic Purity:

T'boli women practice abstinence while weaving. It's like they're superheroes of art purity, making sure
their creations stay super special and connected to their traditions.

Other Cool Stuff

The T'boli tribe isn't just about weaving. They're like a creative powerhouse! They're amazing at
embroidery, making cool brass stuff, beads, and even carving wood. Their talents are so awesome that
people from far and wide want to get their hands on T'boli products.

Cultural Vibes:

Beyond weaving, these guys are like the cool kids of the Philippines. They sing, dance, and play
instruments like nobody's business. T'boli musicians and dancers have even shown off their skills at big
events around the world. They're like cultural ambassadors spreading their awesome vibes globally!

So, T'nalak weaving isn't just about threads and colors; it's about dreams, stories, and keeping a whole
culture alive and thriving. How cool is that?

T'nalak Process
Where does it happen?

First off, picture a beautiful place around Lake Sebu on Mindanao Island. That's where the T'boli people,
especially the super talented women, work their weaving wonders.

Who's in Charge?
Now, the ones who rock at making T'nalak are often women with royal blood. They're like the queens of
weaving, knowing tons of cool stories and patterns passed down through generations.

How Do They Remember So Much?

Imagine knowing thousands of patterns by heart. That's what these amazing T'boli women do! Each
pattern has a story, like a piece of folklore, and they've got it all memorized.

The Making Magic - Step by Step:

1. Spiritual Guide: They kick off with a spiritual guardian called Fu Dalu, who helps guide the whole
weaving process. It's like having a wise friend giving tips.

2. Colors and Material: They use the fibers from the abaca tree, and there's a special technique called
kedungon to get them ready. It's like preparing a superhero suit for weaving.

3. Weaving Technique:The T'boli use something called a backstrap loom (legogong), and the weaving
process has a cool name - mewel. It takes up to a month to weave one piece. Imagine patiently creating
something awesome!

4. Finishing Touch: After all that weaving magic, they do something called semaki. It involves using a
heated cowrie shell to make the fabric shiny and conditioning it with nut oil. It's like giving their creation
a final glow-up.

Why is it So Special?

Now, T'nalak isn't just pretty fabric; it's part of their culture. They use it for special rituals and even offer
it to spirits. It's like a VIP guest at festive celebrations, and families exchange T'nalak for things they
need in a kind of cool trading system.

Why Do They Sell It?

Beyond all the tradition and stories, T'nalak is a big deal for many communities. They sell it to make a
living. So, when you buy T'nalak, you're not just getting a cool fabric; you're supporting a whole
community of talented weavers and keeping their traditions alive.

So, the T'nalak process is like a mix of ancient stories, magical techniques, and a bit of modern living, all
woven together into something truly special.

Who Are the Mandaya?

a group of people living in the mountains of Mindanao, and they're called the Mandaya. Their name
means "the first upstream people." So, they're like the cool folks living near the source of rivers.

Why Are They Special?

These Mandaya people have a super vibrant culture that's been around for ages. They've faced tough
times, like when other groups tried to take over their land, but guess what? They kept their traditions
strong and alive.

Dreaming Culture:

the Mandaya have this unique thing called the "Culture of Dreaming." It's like they believe dreams are
super important, not just for sleeping but for their art, medicine, and healing practices.

Dagmay - The Magical Textile:

they have this magical fabric called Dagmay. It's not just any cloth; it's considered sacred. They believe
that cutting it destroys its special essence. Imagine a fabric that comes from dreams – that's Dagmay!
They even say a spirit called Tagamaling gave them the dream to create it.

Weaving with Heart and Soul:

When Mandaya people weave Dagmay, it's not just a craft. It's like a sacred ceremony. They start with
prayers, and they do it in peaceful areas, connecting their art with nature. The fabric itself is made from
abaca, which is like the fiber from banana leaves, and they use a special mud-dyeing technique for those
intricate patterns.

Healing Magic:

They have special people called Baylan, who are like spiritual leaders. They can heal using traditional
knowledge inspired by dreams. There's even a top-notch healer called Kalalaysan, who can help really
sick people. But get this – healing isn't just for the special leaders; anyone in the community who
dreams of a cure can become a healer. It's like they believe in the power of dreams to make their
community healthy.

So, Mandaya people are like mountain wizards weaving dreams into fabric. Their special cloth, Dagmay,
is not just for looking pretty; it's a piece of their dreams and a connection to their culture. Plus, they've
got these dream-inspired healers who work magic in their community. It's like a magical mountain
tapestry, where dreams and art and healing all come together!

What's PisSiyabit?
Alright, so PisSiyabit is like a VIP cloth for the Tausug people. It's square-shaped and made from cotton
or silk. Picture it as a super colorful, geometric-patterned fabric. People mostly wear it on their heads
during special Tausug events, like weddings, to show off their cool history and rank.

How Do They Wear It?

tying a cool, colorful cloth around your head or shoulder. That's how Tausug people rock PisSiyabit!
Sometimes, they even knot it around the hilt of a sword – super stylish, right? It's like their fashion
statement for special occasions.

Not Just for Fashion:

PisSiyabit isn't just a fashion accessory; it's like a piece of art. In modern times, people use it to decorate
their homes. You might spot it on frames, curtains, and they even give it away as gifts. It's like spreading
a bit of Tausug style wherever you go.

So, Tausug folks have this amazing cloth called PisSiyabit. It's not just about looking cool; it's a symbol of
their special occasions, like weddings, and a way to carry their history and status. Plus, it's not just for
wearing – it's like a burst of color that can jazz up your home or make a thoughtful gift. It's Tausug style
all wrapped up in one awesome square!

Maguindanaon and Inaul Weaving - Unraveling the Threads of Tradition:

In a place called Maguindanao, and they have this incredible woven fabric called Inaul. It's not just any
cloth; it's like a symbol of dignity and status. Let's weave through the story of how they make it:

What's Inaul?

So, Inaul is a special tapestry fabric in Maguindanaon. The word itself means "woven," and it's not just
about making cloth. It's a big deal, a symbol of "bara-bangsa," which is like having a lot of dignity and
respect. They often use Inaul in a multitasking fabric called malong.

How Do They Make It?

Now, picture a bunch of weavers with colorful threads. They use cotton and silk threads and these big
looms that handle a ton of threads at once. First, they figure out the colors and design. It's like planning
a masterpiece! Then, they spin the threads on a wheel and carefully insert them into the loom's comb to
create the beautiful patterns.

Quality Over Quantity:

Each weaver focuses on making just one Inaul tapestry at a time. It's not about making a bunch quickly;
it's about making each one perfect. They take their time to ensure that each Inaul is a work of art.

In Maguindanao, and they have this magical cloth called Inaul. It's not just about fashion; it's a symbol of
respect and dignity. The weavers use big looms to carefully create patterns using colorful threads. Each
Inaul is like a masterpiece, and the weavers take their time to make each one perfect. It's not just
weaving fabric; it's weaving a story of tradition and pride!

What Do the Colors Mean?

Inaul as a canvas, and the colors are like the paint. Yellow, maroon, orange, and black are like the royal
colors, showing off a bit of "royalty." White threads are used for sad moments, like mourning, while
green is all about cool vibes and peace.

Cool Designs:

Now, think about your favorite patterns and shapes. Inaul is like a playground of designs! They love
rainbows, stripes, taro leaves, wide borders, and even the silhouette of something called
lumbayannata’dman. And guess what? They've added some modern twists with cool florals, elbow
patterns, and even reversible fabrics.

Where Did It Come From?

Inaul isn't just a random creation. It's deeply rooted in tradition. The Maguindanao people use it to
make a wraparound skirt called malong. Other folks, like the Maranaos in Marawi City, also love rocking
the Inaul tradition. There are over 20 different designs, and the rarest ones are like royal heirlooms.

Special Designs You Should Know:

Picture this – they've got designs like umpak (super fancy embroidery), binaludto (rainbow style),
panigabi (taro leaves), and this rare tie-dye one called binaludan, known as ikat by other cool tribes like
the T'boli and Cordillera people.

Threads Matter Too

having different types of threads, like cottony ones (tanor), silky rayon, and shiny katiyado. They mix
rayon and tanor to create a special malong called "mestiza." It's like mixing different ingredients to make
a tasty dish!

Colors Tell a Story:

Colors in Inaul aren't just random; they're like a language. Red shows bravery, green is for peace, black
stands for dignity, white is for sadness, and green pops up again for more peace. It's like a whole
rainbow reflecting their culture.

Modern Twist:

Inaul isn't stuck in the past; it's rocking the present too! Nowadays, it's not just for traditional skirts. You
can spot Inaul in modern clothing like gowns, polo shirts, and trousers. It's like taking a piece of tradition
and giving it a modern spin!

So, Inaul is like a magical cloth painting with meanings in every color. They use it to make special skirts,
and it's not just a thing of the past – it's part of today's fashion too. It's like wearing a story, where each
color and design has a meaning that reflects the cool culture of Maguindanao. How awesome is that?

Okir Art
a super special and ancient art form belonging to the Maranaos in the Philippines. It's like a visual feast
of patterns, stories, and cultural pride. Let's check it out:

What's Okir?

Okir as a secret language of design, exclusive to the Maranaos. It's like an artistic treasure that started
way back in the 6th century, even before the area became influenced by Islam. Okir is not just a pattern;
it's a piece of Maranao identity.

Geometric Marvels:

Picture intricate designs carved in wood, etched in brass, and even painted on walls. Okir patterns are
like a dance of curves, often inspired by leaves and vines. It's not just decoration; it's a cultural symbol
deeply rooted in Maranao history.

For Men and Women:

Okir isn't one-size-fits-all. There's Okir a Dato for men, showcasing ornamental designs, and Okir a Bay
for women, each telling a unique story. It's like wearable art that reflects gender-specific elegance.

Crafting Magic:

Creating Okir is no simple task. It involves figuring out patterns, painting, carving, and sculpting. Every
stroke and curve is a piece of the Maranao identity. It's not just art; it's a fine art that mirrors the social
and psychological identity of the Maranao society.

A Cultural Legacy:

this art being cherished for generations. Okir is more than just patterns; it's a legacy. Every artifact,
ornament, or decoration crafted by the Maranaos features authentic Okir. It's a mark of their cultural
identity, untouched by imitation.

Intricate Patterns:

Maranao artists have their own secret language with patterns like Matilak (circle), Poyok (bud), Dapal
(leaf), Pako (fern or spiral form), and more. They use specific technical terms, making each piece a
unique expression of their culture.

Visual Appreciation:

To truly understand Okir, you need to see it. It's not just a description; it's a visual experience. The
Mindanao State University Museum is like a treasure trove, showcasing tools and implements adorned
with Okir, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage.

Preserving Heritage:
The Maranaos aren't just creating art; they're preserving their heritage. Okir isn't confined to museums;
it's a part of daily life, displayed proudly in households. It's a reminder of where they come from and a
celebration of their unique identity.

So, Okir isn't just lines and patterns; it's a storybook of Maranao history, a language etched in design,
and a symbol of cultural pride. Each curve and swirl is a brushstroke in the masterpiece of Maranao
identity.

Soul and Space

a place where structures are not just buildings but extensions of the land they stand on. These are
simple shelters, crafted without following any fancy architectural rules, using whatever materials and
tools are close at hand. They're not just houses; they're a blend of simplicity and survival.

Torogan of Maranao - Where Royalty Resides:

Maranao and their special place called Torogan. It's not your everyday house; it's the royal residence.
The sultan, along with family and servants, calls it home. But here's the magic – it's more than just a
fancy living space. It's like the heart of the community, where important things happen.

Royal Living:

In the Torogan, you'd find the sultan, his wives, kids, and all the busy servants. It's not just a place to
crash; it's a center of life for Maranao royalty.

Beyond Walls:

The Torogan isn't just a private palace; it's a communal hub. Imagine it as the town square of royalty.
Important community matters, discussions, and decisions happen right here. It's like a combination of a
grand living room and a town hall.

A Sultan's Essential:

Every sultanate, which is like a kingdom led by a sultan, needed a Torogan. It's not a luxury; it's a must-
have. Back when sultanates ruled the land, each community under their command had at least one
Torogan. It's like the heartbeat of a powerful community.

So, think of the Torogan as more than just a building. It's a living, breathing space where royalty resides,
and community life unfolds. It's not just bricks and wood; it's a symbol of Maranao tradition, history,
and the soul of a community.

Bale of Ifugao - A Timeless Marvel of Ingenuity:

the remarkable traditional house of the Ifugao people. It's not just a shelter; it's a testament to
craftsmanship, resilience, and the rich tapestry of Ifugao culture.
Evolution of Shelter:

The Ifugao's journey from the primitive "abong" to the more lasting "bale" is like witnessing the
evolution of home construction. It's not just a house; it's the first pre-fabricated house globally, hailed
by anthropologists like Otley Beyer.

Four Types of Ifugao Houses:

1. Abong: Simple, resting directly on the ground.

2. Inappal: Elevated, signaling a move towards permanence.

3. Bale: The star of the show, a permanent, durable family house, elevated for added significance.

4. Alang: Reserved for upper-class families, a granary house near rice fields.

Functional Wonder:

Picture this – a one-room wonder serving as a home, kitchen, dining area, and bedroom. Crafted by
skilled local carpenters called munhabats, using traditional tools, the Bale is a living example of
resourcefulness.

Ingenious Construction Techniques:

Now, here's the magic – no nails or bolts! Mortise, pegs, and ties hold it together. Measurements are
estimated with extended arms and dangan, showcasing the skill and precision of Ifugao builders.

Resilient Against Nature's Fury:

Typhoons, earthquakes, torrential rains – the Bale stands tall against them all. It's not just a shelter; it's a
symbol of Ifugao's resilience and brilliance in home construction.

Cultural Significance:

The construction of a Bale involves rituals and ngilin prohibitions. It's not just about building a house; it's
a communal effort akin to bayanihan, where dangah, community service without payment, plays a
significant role.

Representation of Ifugao Culture:

Every Bale is more than wood and thatch; it symbolizes Ifugao families and their rich culture. Each hut
tells a story of resilience, hardiness, and a deep connection with their roots.

So, the Bale of Ifugao isn't just a house; it's a living, breathing chapter of Ifugao history. It's a
masterpiece of design, a testament to resilience, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Ifugao
people against time and adversity.
Bahay Kubo - The Timeless Essence of Filipino
Architecture:
Let's embark on a journey to discover the enchanting world of the Bahay Kubo, the indigenous stilt
house that breathes life into the heart of Philippine culture.

Nipa Hut Magic:

Also known as Bahay Kubo, the Nipa Hut is more than a house; it's an emblem of Filipino heritage.
Perched on stilts, it stands proudly as a symbol of traditional living, surrounded by nature's embrace.

Architectural Icon:

The Bahay Kubo isn't just a house; it's a living legacy that has shaped the architectural principles of many
traditional Filipino dwellings. Its influence reverberates through time, giving rise to the noble "bahay na
bato" during the Colonial era, adorned with Spanish and Chinese influences.

Inspiration for the Ages:

From the humble Bahay Kubo, the spirit of Filipino architecture has transcended generations. Icons like
the Coconut Palace, Sto. Niño Shrine, Cultural Center of the Philippines, and National Arts Center
proudly draw inspiration from the Bahay Kubo, weaving the past into the fabric of the present.

Modern Echoes:

Even in contemporary structures, the Bahay Kubo's influence resonates. Modern edifices gracefully
incorporate elements of this timeless dwelling, serving as a sub-influence that bridges the gap between
past traditions and modern aspirations.

Symbol of Heritage:

Beyond being a mere shelter, the Bahay Kubo is a symbol of Filipino heritage. It represents the enduring
connection between the people and their roots, a testament to a way of life that embraces simplicity,
community, and harmony with nature.

Living Tradition:

The Bahay Kubo isn't confined to history books; it's a living tradition. Its essence is etched into the
architectural soul of the Philippines, reminding the people of the beauty found in simplicity, and the
importance of preserving the cultural tapestry that defines their identity.

So, the Bahay Kubo is more than a house on stilts; it's a timeless masterpiece that embodies the spirit of
Filipino architecture. It's a bridge that connects the past with the present, an icon that stands as a
testament to the enduring beauty of the Philippines' rich cultural heritage.
Bahay na Bato - Where Spanish Elegance Meets
Filipino Roots:
Let's unravel the beauty of the Bahay na Bato, a living testament to the fusion of Spanish and Filipino
architecture during the enchanting Spanish Colonial Period.

Spanish-Filipino Elegance:

The Bahay na Bato is not just a house; it's a glimpse into the elegant Spanish-Filipino domestic
architecture that graced the landscapes of the Spanish Colonial Period. It's like a canvas where styles
intertwine, creating a masterpiece of cultural fusion.

Architectural Symphony:

a dance of architectural styles – neo-gothic and neo-Moorish details gracefully coming together. A
portico, porte cochere, volada, load-bearing walls, pilasters, and engaged columns paint a picture of
intricate design that echoes both Spanish sophistication and Filipino ingenuity.

Windows to the Soul:

Stained-glass windows, capiz sliding ventanas, and ventanillas are like poetic verses written in
architecture. They're not just openings; they're art, allowing light to dance through, telling stories of a
bygone era.

Evolution from Bahay Kubo:

Picture this – the Bahay na Bato evolving from the humble Bahay Kubo. It's not a departure but an
adaptation, maintaining the architectural roots while gracefully embracing Spanish influence.

Hybrid Harmony:

The Bahay na Bato is a true hybrid, a beautiful blend of Austronesian, Spanish, and Chinese architecture.
It's like a cultural orchestra where each note plays a role in creating harmony.

Elevated Elegance:

A rectangular plan, elevated living spaces, and a ground floor for storage and business – it's not just
about architecture; it's a thoughtful arrangement. Open ventilation keeps the spirit of the traditional
Bahay Kubo alive, breathing life into Spanish elegance.

Philippine Adaptation:
The Bahay na Bato isn't just a copy-paste from Spain; it's a Philippine adaptation. It integrates Spanish
styles with traditional Filipino elements, creating a unique architectural language that speaks of
adaptation and harmony.

So, the Bahay na Bato isn't just a house; it's a symphony of cultural influences. It's an architectural
journey that echoes the elegance of Spain, the roots of the Philippines, and the harmonious blend of
two worlds. It's not just a dwelling; it's a living piece of history, where Spanish sophistication meets
Filipino ingenuity in perfect harmony.