A JOURNEY THROUGH THE ARTISTRY AND CRAFTMANSHIP OF THE FILIPINO PEOPLE WITH HABI
Filipino artistic impression is deeply embedded within its heritage and culture. Its influence in textiles, paintings, clothes, jewelry, purses, arts and crafts are celebrated through HABI: The Philippine Textile Council and their annual event. They presented their 8th Likhang Habi Market Fair at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City with plenty of activities that were scheduled throughout the three day event on October 12th through the 14th from 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
This year’s theme was Woven Voyages, where the artistry and skill of several local artists were showcased. Some were invited to speak about their techniques and inspirations that went into their creations. People were given the opportunity to speak one on one with the artists themselves by going to that artists’ booth where they would also find beautiful one of a kind, handcrafted pieces made by the artists that were available to purchase. Over 80 local and ASEAN vendors displayed unique crafts that demonstrated different craftsmanship of the region. People could find rare finds for home, work, fashion, or gifts.
On Fridays list of activities, there were talks about sustainability and art and a performance by KontraGapi. Then on Saturday there were several artists who gave demonstrations on different weaving and embroidery techniques, performances by St. Scholastica School and Tarduguk Sama Cultural Troupe, and a fashion show. Sunday ended the event with talks and tutorials from different artists and another performance by the Tarduguk Sama Cultural Troupe. The entertaining performance of the Tarduguk Sama Cultural Troupe gave the audience a look into the different traditions from Tawi-Tawi. Viewers were engaged in the displays of dances, games, mating and marriage rituals of the Tawi-Tawi as the troupe were dressed in decorative native clothing and accessories with intricate, colorful designs.
Tarduguk Cultural Troupe
Saturday’s Fashion Show: Woven Voyage, showcased the work of several fashion designers and labels that gave a more modern spin on traditional Filipino cultural designs. Designers like: Alfonso Davao, whose creations were more closely related to indigenous tribes; Ancestral Crafts, whose designs were for casual, everyday wear; Mayumi, whose work is a modern take of the Maria Clara dress; EN Barong Filipino, whose traditional barongs were presented with masculine flare; Ruby Roa, whose female casual wear is sophisticated and modern; P*Nay with Hola Lili, whose pastel embroidered and woven designs look great for day to day wear; Adante Leyesa, whose LBD gives a slight twist through embellished necklaces; Interweave by Creative Definitions, whose woven prints look comfortable while still looking stylish; Bin al Kay Artisinal Crafts, whose pastel designs are breezy casual and feminine; Narda’s Naturals, whose designs are perfect for everyday wear; Filip + Inna, whose beachy toned creations are embellished with detailed embroidery; Twinkle Ferraren, whose edgy designs stand out with bold tribal prints; Jor-El Espina, whose feminine creations are mod and flirty; Chula with Aluna , whose patchwork printed dresses are bright, colorful and playful; High Fashion by Ditta Sandico, whose simplistic take on Maria Clara is heightened only with gauzy, jewel-toned fabric; Islas Filipinas, whose male and female casual wear are perfect for vacation wear and uniquely crafted with embroidery; Edric Ong, whose work gives a new meaning to country boho; and Patis Pamintuan Tesoro, whose dress ended the show with beautiful, delicate beading and embroidery that stayed true to the traditional Maria Clara.
Slam Event Productions’ Glam Team handled all of the make-up and hair of the models that participated in the fashion show.
The fashion show was a success in bringing attention to the HABI event. The audience had a chance to see the designs beautifully modeled on stage and how traditional weaving and embroidery could be turned into modern and chic creations. Each piece was an inspiration to the artistry and skills that the Philippines have to offer.
EN Barong Filipino
The 8th Likhang Habi Market Fair is a great testament to the remarkable mastery and creativity of the Filipino culture and how its heritage can be interwoven perfectly into modern times. It is a fun, entertaining three day event where everyone could learn, be inspired and just enjoy shopping the different fashion, arts and crafts that the artists have to offer.