"Liwayway" means "Dawn" in Tagalog. The woman is wearing a traditional Filipino dress called "Baro't Saya." The entire piece represents life in a rural province of the Philippines. The woman is leaning towards the mango tree, with her left hand supporting herself while her right hand is holding the "panuelo." Her bare feet are firmly planted on the ground, connected to the mango tree's roots. The background shows rice fields with palm trees and mountains.
The woman seems to be looking somewhere far away. Perhaps she wants to see the dawn?
Liwayway
Oil on Canvas, 2023
120x60 cm
The piece depicts a traditional wedding of the Sama-Badjau tribe, also known as the sea nomads and indigenous tribes in the Philippines. The painting includes the newlyweds, two dancers performing the traditional 'Pangalay' or fingernail dance, two men sailing the boat, an announcer, and a woman holding the umbrella for the newlyweds.
It is customary for the Badjau tribe to announce their marriage to every house in their town. This painting illustrates how they move from house to house, letting everyone know about their union.
Kasalan
“A Wedding”
Oil on Canvas, 2023
100x80 cm
This piece emphasizes the importance of taking a break amidst a fast paced world. The girl is looking away, probably day dreaming, and intoxicated with her own thoughts. The yellow dress is free flowing, indicating relaxation and carelessness. The setting is in the deep woods, away from city noises, where she grew up. She is tired from noise, and definitely ready for new beginnings. The leaves of the tree blow in a gentle breeze. This could be a sign of the calmness and freshness of nature.
Girl in a Yellow Dress
Oil on canvas, 2023 120x80 cm