Balut
Being born in the United States the daughter of immigrants from the Philippines makes for a sometimes complicated and confusing identity. There are so many things I don't understand - foods I'm too afraid to try - but they're such a ubiquitous part of Filipino culture. I will probably never try balut, but that doesn't mean I can't look for the beauty in them. These works are my attempt to connect with parts of my heritage in a way that only an artist can.
Transfer of Power. 2024; piña fabric, mixed beads, cowrie shells, chains, wood; approx. 36"h x 36"w.
This Isn't How I Thought It Would Be. 2023; piña fabric, mixed beads, cowrie shells, sinamay, wood; 8.5"h x 8.5"w.
The Beginning and the End All in One Bite. 2023; piña fabric, mixed beads, capiz shells, sinamay, wood; 18"h x 18"w x 3" d.
Life Interrupted. 2023; piña fabric, mixed beads, cowrie shells, sinamay, wood; 12"h x 8.5"w.
The Weight. 2025; piña fabric, mixed beads, cowrie shells, sinamay, wood, silk thread, stone; 11.5"h x 8.5"w.