Lineage

2020 | 5.5 x 6 ft | Conte crayon on raw canvas

Lineage is inspired by the motifs used in the tatak (hand-tap tattooing) ritual practice of indigenous Filipino tribes. Each motif was earned and received by members of the community to invoke strength and guidance from the ancestors, indicate fertility, acknowledge prowess in battle and increase aesthetic appeal. The white curvilinear symbol in the center is lingling-o, an emblem worn as jewelry that represents the ovaries of women. The eight-pointed star is inspired by the Filipino flag, representing the 8 provinces that revolted against Spanish colonization.