Strong And Beautiful is a Filipino creation myth about the origins of the Philippine islands and the first Filipinos. In the story, the first man was named “Malakas” which means strong, and the first woman was named “Maganda” which means beautiful. Together, the two beings emerged from a single bamboo, as a symbol of unity in duality, the embodiment of both strength and beauty in all human existence. Click here to watch the youtube virtual exhibition.
Filipino Canadian culture is diverse and multi-layered: indigenous, colonial, and immigrant. It is in understanding the complex history and heritage of the community that we are able to truly realize the values it represents. The month of June is celebrated as Filipino Heritage Month in Canada which coincides with National Aboriginal History Month. As we recognize the value of preserving Filipino heritage, we honor the power and resilience of indigenous First Nations communities in Canada. Maintaining our connection to our heritage and to each other in a diverse cultural landscape is what makes our shared humanity both strong and beautiful.
FEATURED INDIGENOUS FILIPINO MUSIC:
Singkil: A Traditional Dance of the Maranao and Maguindanao People in Southern Philippines
FEATURED ARTISTS:
Ovvian Castrillo Hill Based in Fort St. John, BC Traditional Territory of the Dunne-Za People
Trained as a designer, and honed as an art writer and consultant, Ovvian Castrillo Hill began sculpting in 2003 under the tutelage of her father, Eduardo. Employing familiar materials, she repurposes metals and alters finishes to make each sculpture personal to her, with a story prodded by emotions culled from her continued evolution as a daughter, a mother, a wife and a woman. Ovvian’s work can be found in Manila, Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Canada.
Charlie Frenal Based in Kelowna, BC Traditional Territory of the Syilx/Okanagan People
Charlie Frenal is a self-taught artist born in the town of Polomolok, South Cotabato, Philippines. Throughout his life, he has always been fascinated with nature and tribal culture. His pieces which are on permanent display at the Davao Museum of History and Ethnography were made using organic material such as durian husks and bamboo slats. An architect by profession, Charlie moved to Canada in 2012 with his family and has continued to create art inspired by his heritage.
For another experience of Strong and Beautiful Exhibition visit: https://www.facebook.com/FilipinoCana...