INTRO_

MINDANAO IS ONE OF THE RICHEST LANDMARK IN THE PHILIPPINES IN TERMS OF

ARTS CULTURE AND CRAFTS. iT IS LOCATED AT THE LOWER PART OF THE
PHILIPPINES ARCHIPELAGO AND IS THE PLACE FOR MANY TRIBES, INCLJUDING THE
b’LAAN TRIBE

INTRODUCE SELF

OBJECTIVES:
- BLAAN TRIBE’S BRIEF BACKGROUND
- THEIR CRAFTS AND DESIGN
- ANALYZING THEIR ART IN THE CONTEXT OF GEOMETRIC DESIGN

BLAAN
ikat - process of dyeing
- They are famous for their brassworks, beadwork and tabih weave.
- The people of these tribes wear colorful embroidered native costumes and
beadwork accessories. The women of these tribes, particularly, wear heavy brass belts
with brass ‘tassels’ ending in tiny brass bells that herald their approach even when they
are a long way off. (B’laan | Wikipedia)

The Blaan, also known as B'laan, are an indigenous tribe in Southern Mindanao. Their name is
a combination of "Bla" and "An," which means "Opponent People." The B'laans of South
Cotabato were previously renowned for their hunting and food-gathering abilities, catching wild
animals and collecting grains, root crops, fruits, and herbs in the vast cogonal region known as
Kolon Datal, which is now part of Koronadal City.

Arts and Designs:

The B'laan tribe's creative creations are profoundly based on their traditional and
spiritual beliefs. Their talent may be seen in a variety of ways, such as beautiful weavings,
beads, and unusual designs on their garments..
Handwoven Textiles: B'laan women are skilled weavers, creating vibrant and detailed textiles
using traditional backstrap looms. These textiles often feature geometric patterns and symbolic
motifs that reflect the tribe's connection to nature, spirituality, and ancestral heritage.
Beadwork: Beadwork is another significant aspect of B'laan craftsmanship. Intricately beaded
accessories and adornments are crafted with precision, incorporating unique designs and
colors. These beadwork items hold cultural significance and are often worn during special
occasions and ceremonies.
T'nalak: Perhaps one of the most iconic B'laan art forms is the T'nalak, a traditional woven cloth
made from abaca fibers. T'nalak is not only valued for its intricate patterns and designs but also
holds cultural and spiritual importance. The patterns are often inspired by dreams and visions of
the weavers and are believed to possess protective qualities.

Symbolism in Designs:
B'laan art and designs are rich in symbolism, reflecting their close connection to nature,
spirituality, and ancestral wisdom. Geometric patterns, stylized animals, and plant motifs are
commonly found in their artworks, each carrying specific meanings related to the tribe's beliefs
and values.

INTO SPECIFICS:
The B'laan tribe possesses distinct characteristics that set them apart from other indigenous
tribes in the Philippines. While each tribe has its unique cultural elements, the B'laan are
distinguishable by several factors:

1. T'nalak Weaving:
The T'nalak, a traditional woven cloth made from abaca fibers, stands out as the signature
artwork of the B'laan tribe. What makes it particularly unique is the intricate process involved in
its creation. The patterns found on T'nalak are not randomly chosen but are inspired by the
dreams and visions of the weavers, often passed down through generations. This distinctive
weaving tradition is not only a form of artistic expression but also holds deep cultural and
spiritual significance.

2. Symbolism in Artwork:
The B'laan's use of symbolism in their artwork is another distinguishing feature. Geometric
patterns, stylized animals, and plant motifs in their textiles and beadwork are not merely
decorative but carry specific meanings related to their spiritual beliefs, connection to nature, and
ancestral wisdom. The symbolism embedded in their art reflects a unique cultural narrative that
sets them apart from other tribes.

3. Hunter-Gatherer Traditions:
Historically, the B'laan were renowned as skilled hunters and food gatherers. This emphasis on
subsistence practices, hunting wild animals, and harvesting grains, root crops, fruits, and herbs,
contributes to their distinctive lifestyle and cultural identity. While other tribes may have different
primary livelihoods or practices, the B'laan's expertise in hunting and gathering has left an
indelible mark on their cultural heritage.

4. Connection to Kolon Datal:

The B'laan's association with Kolon Datal, the once vast open space in what is now Koronadal
City, adds a unique geographical dimension to their identity. The land's historical significance in
their traditional practices and livelihoods contributes to the distinctiveness of the B'laan tribe..