Contemporary Arts and Local Materials

Local Materials in Contemporary Arts

• Contemporary artists utilize recyclable materials such as bottles, hay, rice stalks, plastic straw, wood, wire, thread, rattan, metal, and leaves for art creation.
• Artists view beauty in all forms of waste, including garlic and corn peelings, highlighting the value of resourcefulness in the art process.

Sanikulas Cookie Mold Carvings (Pampanga)

• Sanikulas cookies are arrowroot-based, featuring the image of St. Nicholas, also referred to as “The Healer” in folklore.
• These cookies are believed to aid in healing illnesses when consumed, promoting faster recovery.
• Unique molds for these cookies are considered exceptional folk art, often customized with the owner’s initials.

Pabalot or Pastillas Wrapper Cutting Art (Bulacan)

• The intricate pastillas wrapper is crafted from delicate Japanese paper, requiring skilled hands and precise motor skills to produce high-quality wrappers.

Taka (Laguna)

• “Taka” refers to a paper mache art form, with origins traced back to a woman named Maria Bangue in the 1920s.
• Initially made using wooden molds and strips of paper, Taka became more popular during the American colonization due to excessive newsprint and a creative culture that minimizes waste.
• The art diversified to depict various animals beyond the traditional horse.

Pagbuburda (Embroidery Art)

• Embroidery is a thriving art form in local communities, mainly practiced by women who are farmers or fishermen during their off-season.
• It features intricate floral designs, often reflecting cultural and community themes.

Singkaban or Bamboo Art

• Singkaban is a traditional Philippine art form focused on intricately shaving bamboo to create decorative designs for home decor and celebrations.
• This craft is particularly prominent during festivals, weddings, and community gatherings, showcasing both skill and communal spirit.

Puni or Palm Leaf Folding (Bulacan)

• Puni involves folding palm leaves to create toys, woven baskets, bags, and fans, with the “Palaspas” being a common example used during Holy Week.
• Fresh coconut leaves are often used, though dried and treated leaves are preferred for durability and aesthetic appeal, reflecting Filipino ingenuity and creativity in craft.

Explore the innovative use of local and recyclable materials in contemporary art. This quiz delves into how artists utilize everyday items like bottles, hay, and even food scraps to create unique artworks. Discover the creativity behind transforming waste into art.