The Philippines has a rich material culture. Much can be gleaned from these tangible manifestations of our history and humanity. In both breadth and depth, the various objects, items, and artefacts from different periods of our history impart complex narratives, multi-faceted influences, and diverse expressions of innate creativity.
The terno demonstrates this. Its evolution through time is a testament to its versatility and resilience. From the ensemble composed of the blouse, skirt, kerchief and overskirt during the Spanish colonial times to a less cumbersome silhouette during the 1900s. From there, it developed into a more modern translation wherein it became synonymous to ceremonial or celebratory wear. Today’s more current adaptations feature some of its components, like the sleeve, embroidery, embellishment, beading, or fabric, to symbolize national pride and identity in the everyday.
When the term terno is used, it can loosely refer to a formal attire or by definition: a pairing, matching of items, to make suitable, or to fit. These are the underpinnings of this exhibition. This effort also takes into account Ms. Marites Pineda’s significant role in advocating for our local culture, with a focus on textiles, fabrics,and crafts; a cause that has fueled her eight decades of spirited and purposeful engagement.
TERNO is an exhibition that presents various renditions of weaves and materials. Taking inspiration and motivation from the garments from Ms. Pineda’s collection, each artist will respond and reflect on a specific piece of clothing. Whether it’s the color, pattern, flow, drapery or construction, these gowns will be sources of stimulation to induce meditative or contemplative contemporary art works. As these group of intergenerational artists showcase their mixed-media works, we are also able to forward our fertile, creative, and resilient past. More importantly, the collection gives light and contributes to a diverse and highly sustainable legacy for future generations of Filipinos to build upon.
Marika Constantino
2024
