"Khala Lilies by the Capiz Window"
Piña, Abaca, Old Kaniamosa Stitch with Woolen and Cotton Thread
26 x 6.25 x 32.5 inches
Khala Lilies by the Capiz Window is a stunning fusion of traditional Filipino textile artistry and contemporary craft, where each thread and stitch tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. The work features delicate piña and abaca fibers, materials revered for their rich cultural history and unique textures, intricately woven using the old kaniamosa stitch—a technique passed down through generations. The piece is further enriched by the use of woolen and cotton thread, adding depth and vibrancy to the composition.
At its core, the artwork evokes the serene beauty of khala lilies, a common motif in Filipino art, positioned by the light-filled Capiz window, known for its translucent beauty and role in traditional Filipino architecture. The composition captures a moment of quiet reflection, where the lilies, with their soft, flowing forms, seem to bloom in the interplay of natural light and shadow cast by the Capiz window's panes.
The 26 x 6.25 x 32.5-inch piece is a dynamic, three-dimensional artwork that brings together elements of texture, light, and cultural symbolism. The layering of natural fibers with meticulously stitched details invites a tactile experience, while the visual rhythm of the piece draws attention to both the rich cultural narrative and the artist’s innovative reinterpretation of traditional Filipino craft.
Through Khala Lilies by the Capiz Window, the artist honors the beauty and complexity of Filipino heritage, reimagining it through a contemporary lens while preserving the time-honored techniques that continue to resonate with Filipino identity today.
