The Unique Identity Unit III Arts and Crafts of M indanao o f the South
At the end of the lesson, you are expected to: 1. describe the attire, fabrics, tapestries, crafts, accessories and body ornamentation of Mindanao. 2. value the attire, fabrics, tapestries, crafts, accessories and body ornamentation of the featured places based on the characteristics 3. draw your own design of clothing inspired by the arts and crafts of Mindanao
MINDANAO Land of Promise
Mindanao, referred to as the Land of Promise, is known as the second largest and southernmost island in the Philippine archipelago. Mindanao is a Muslim outpost in the predominantly Roman Catholic Philippines. Although Muslims are no longer a majority, Islamic is evident. The island of Mindanao also has the largest concentration of ethnolinguistic groups and diverse islands. There are many mosques, and distinctive brassware, including various crafts made by different ethnic minorities.
It is already in the culture of Mindanao to produce crafts which may or can be useful in different activities in the daily life of the people Their talent in making various crafts has made the island one of the best craft makers in the whole country. The unique artistic talent of the various ethnic groups in Mindanao has also created a great impact on our history and culture.
Furthermore, the products showcase distinct designs and features that leave a good impression on the island’s visitors. Thus, up to this day, we still use their crafts specifically their attire, textiles, tapestries, accessories and body ornaments.
The artistry of the people in the islands of Mindanao has been an asset in increasing opportunities for livelihood as well as its tourism. Mindanao products reflect how the people put effort in using their artistry and talent to develop authentic crafts that are popular in the Philippines.
The featured provinces of Mindanao have their own unique designs and art forms that are featured in their traditional clothing, accessories and other colorful ornaments.
ATTIRE B’laan
The B'laan is an indigenous, non-Islamic, tribal community in Davao del Sur and South Cotabato . Known as hunters and food gatherers, the cultural heritage of the B'laans is essentially anchored to their interactions with nature ( dela Cruz and Gorospe-Ramos 2006). B’laan tribe
The Bilaan or B`laan are a tribal community of Southern Mindanao, the name of this indigenous group means Mountain people, Industrious people, Opponent people.
The Bilaans have their own system of weaving using abaca fiber, before weaving the typical patterns, rituals are held in accordance with the Bilaan culture, but only the weavers know about these rituals and before making any pattern or design divine guidance is first sought. It is believed that the designs were imparted to the dreamer through the l'nilong (fairies), who are considered guardians of nature.
Their handicraft and traditional attires are being brought to almost every ceremony and are considered as priceless possessions that are offered as dowries during weddings and used as payment for crimes committed against a person or clan or for settling disputes among warring clans. The Bilaan are strong believers on the interdependency with the environment and must respect the will of the Creator and are not allowed to touch or destroy any creature or object without His permission.
The Bilaan culture is unique, the tribe practices indigenous rituals for almost everything that they do because of their belief on the supremacy of the great Creator named Malu / Melu , who is the source of everything.
The B’laan’s clothes are woven from abaca fiber, and embellished with buttons, beads, embroidery, and brass and copper work. One distinct item is the heavy brass belt that B’laan women usually wear around their waistline. These brass belts have numerous tiny bells that produce pleasing chiming sounds that signal the arrival of the women.
The B’laan also use mother-of-pearl that are cut and shaped into geometric forms to look like sequins called taknum . The B’laan are also known for their ikat process which is used in weaving highly-polished abaca textiles. This process is done by dyeing the fabric where the yarns are tightly wrapped with strings before weaving.
Furthermore, B’laan’s first known process of abaca weaving called mabal has also made them popular. Even though they became more well-known in using the ikat process in producing their textiles, they still trying to preserve mabal as part of their culture and tradition
A traditional female tube skirt made from handwoven abaca. TABIH
A Maguindanao plaid Malong used as an alternative to the Tabih . Gintlo
Men’s pants or trousers. salwal
A cross-stitched blouse. Ansif / nsif
A blouse with applique. Albong lbung knibang
A women’s blouse or trousers with intricate designs made from plastic beads or shell sequins. Taknom / taknum
A blouse made from mother of pearl or shell discs. Albong lbung taknum
A beaded embroidered blouse. Albong lbung sanlah
A men’s shirt or pants with geometric designs made from cotton yarn msif