The Gallery
The gallery showcases handwoven baskets and a kalesa inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Ilocos Sur. These pieces highlight traditional craftsmanship and celebrate the region’s unique artistic traditions.
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The Kalesa
The kalesa is a horse-drawn carriage that once served as a symbol of prestige and the main mode of transportation during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines. Inspired by the vibrant streets of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, this kalesa features traditional designs and vivid decorations that reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. Today, it stands as an enduring icon, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past and celebrating the artistry and history of Ilocos Sur.
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Handwoven Baskets
These handwoven baskets are inspired by the intricate weaving traditions of Ilocos Sur, where craftsmanship is passed down through generations. Made using traditional techniques and natural materials, each basket showcases the strength, beauty, and unique patterns characteristic of Ilocano artistry. They are both functional and decorative, representing the enduring legacy of local weavers.
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Handwoven Baskets (2)
This collection features handwoven baskets with varied handle designs, all rooted in Ilocos Sur’s weaving heritage. The different handles demonstrate the versatility and creativity of Ilocano artisans, adapting traditional methods to suit modern needs. Each piece highlights the region’s commitment to preserving and innovating its weaving traditions.
Junk Art & Art Critique
In my art critique of Elmer Borlongan’s “Tree Huggers,” I explored how the painting highlights environmental advocacy and the importance of community in protecting nature, presenting my own revised version that further emphasizes collective action and connection to the land. Alongside this, I created a piece of “junk art”-a bangka made from recycled materials-which symbolizes the Filipino people’s deep ties to the sea and how maritime culture fosters unity and connection among communities. Both works reflect on how art can inspire awareness and celebrate the bonds that link people to their environment and each other.
Photography
My camera, the Nikon D90, originally belonged to my dad. Released in 2008, the D90 was a popular and reliable DSLR. After it broke, we had it repaired in the Philippines, bringing it back to life for new adventures. Now, I use this camera in my free time to explore photography, capturing moments with its trusted performance and classic Nikon quality. Despite its age, the D90 continues to deliver excellent results, making every photo session meaningful and fun.
This photo, taken during my vacation in Pangasinan a few years ago, captures an old basketball hoop that was made for me as a kid but has since been worn down by termites and is no longer durable. Framed by leaves in the foreground and a traditional bahay kubo in the background, it reflects both nostalgia and the passage of time.
This close-up photo of my cat Sachi highlights her fierce yellow-orange eyes, captured perfectly near a window where the natural light created a striking catchlight that brings her gaze to life. The soft, well-angled lighting accentuates the intensity and depth of her eyes, making the portrait vivid and expressive.
This close-up photo of a praying mantis, taken in our backyard in Pangasinan, captures the insect facing the camera with sharp focus, while the background blurs into soft, glowing lights thanks to a zoomed-in lens. The image highlights the vibrant details of the mantis against a dreamy backdrop, showcasing the rich insect life around our home.