Shooting Stars Painting

This artwork was painted on Saguran (raffia) fabric. Unlike the traditional canvas and other linen, Saguran is handwoven in the Philippines, from the fibers of young leaf sheaths of the Buri palm. The varying widths and thickness of each strand, the knots in random spots, and the loose open weave, lend to its coarse surface with a rich dimensional depth. Yet, these nuances and seeming imperfections make the creative process an exciting journey and experience, with each piece responding differently even to the same touch and technique. Sometimes it absorbs, other times it pushes back, generating a level of unpredictability that stimulates a conversation along the creative journey. My choice to work with Saguran was also highly influenced by my desire to stay connected to my roots and heritage. The Saguran is handwoven on the islands of Bohol, in the central region of the Philippines, where I was born. Every artwork done on the Saguran is an exploration of unchartered grounds and new horizons without ever losing touch with the place I first called home.