Fire and Traditions: A Pyrography Art Exhibit Showcasing Indigenous Excellence
Dive into the fascinating world of pyrography—a timeless art form where fire meets creativity. This exhibit brings together some of the unique or weird artists from the Cordillera, each wielding their unique techniques to tell stories of identity, heritage, and innovation. Through the intricate art of wood burning, these artists breathe life into their cultural traditions while pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.
This pyrography art exhibit is not just a showcase of technical skill but a celebration of the Cordillera’s rich cultural heritage. Each artist brings a unique perspective, merging traditional techniques with personal expression to create works that speak of identity, resilience, and innovation.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, a cultural advocate, or simply curious about the art of pyrography, this exhibit promises to ignite your imagination and deepen your appreciation for Indigenous artistry.
Visit Tam-awan village to witness the transformative power of fire, culture, and creativity. Visit the exhibit and let these artists’ stories and creations leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
Featured Artists
Jordan Mang-osan
Chanum Foundation President and world-renowned solar artist, Jordan Mang-osan, holds the distinction as the only professional solar artist in the Philippines. Using the heat of the sun and a magnifying glass, he etches on wood, creating profound reflections on art, life, and society. In 1996, he co-founded the Chanum Foundation, which manages Tam-awan Village, now a hub for artists and a popular tourist destination. Mang-osan also opened Roofless Art Studio (RAS) in Bayabas, Pico, La Trinidad, Benguet, where he continues to innovate and inspire through his sustainable art techniques.
Eden Cawang
Eden Cawang, known by her tribal name “Ayonna,” is a native of Benguet and a member of the Ibaloi tribe from La Trinidad. With 16 years of experience as a full-time artist, she is known for her vibrant works that reflect her rich culture and heritage. Cawang has participated in award-winning community projects like The Great Wall of Bahong Roses and has been a resource speaker on indigenous culture and arts since 2015. She has exhibited her Colours of the Culture Series and Nouveau Series in nine international shows, including four in Asia, and has held eleven solo exhibitions in the Philippines.
Jeck Gayudan Anton
Jeck Gayudan Anton, an Igorot artist from Buguias, Benguet, practices the art of pyrography using an electric “Lanang.” His intricate wood-burned artworks depict the majestic landscapes and vibrant culture of the Cordillera region. By blending tradition with innovation, Anton’s creations celebrate the natural beauty and cultural heritage of his homeland.
Rhesa M. Payangdo
Rhesa M. Payangdo is a self-taught artist and entrepreneur who specializes in graphite and pyrography. Her works focus on the micro beauty of nature, highlighting often-overlooked details. Favoring sepia and black-and-white tones, she finds these subdued colors more expressive and reflective of her vibrant life. Her unique approach to art has garnered admiration for its depth and simplicity.
Gustavo Montero
Gustavo Montero is a visual artist from the Ibaloi and Kalanguya tribes of Benguet Province. His works focus on the warrior culture of the Cordillerans, blending bladesmithing, rattan weaving, sculpture, and “bladepainting” to create unique art pieces. As a practitioner of traditional Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) or KALI, Montero advocates for the preservation of Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge systems and practices. His art symbolizes rebirth, transformation, and healing, serving as a call to empower Indigenous communities and celebrate their identity.
Carl Taawan
Carl Taawan belongs to the Kankanaey tribe of Benguet. He is a graphic artist and a freelance photojournalist who documents the rich culture of the Cordillera region. He uses these basic skills in doing other art and craft concepts. His photos are his inspirations for his artworks using leather as his canvas. He uses a combination of pyrography and tooling to engrave leather. His subjects depict the different cultures of the Cordillera. His creations bridge traditional themes with modern craftsmanship, ensuring the region’s stories are preserved through art.