aYALA FoundationAyala MuseumFernando Zobel de AyalaLilianna ManhanManaraminaretMindanaoMoro ArtsToym Imao
Celebrating the Moro Arts with Manara Moro Interactive Art Exhibit at Ayala Museum
Having been to many cities in Mindanao, I am
always in awe whenever I visit their museums and see its various art exhibits
that is uniquely their own. Somehow I totally understand their history in many
of its colorful arts. There’s more to Mindanao than what is portrayed of the
island in the news. To quote Ayala Foundation Co-Chairman Fernando Zobel de
Ayala, there’s a ”rich and inspiring culture of Mindanao communities and the significant
role the Moro culture plays in our country’s history and heritage.”
To celebrate the beauty
of Moro arts and culture, the Ayala Foundation recently launched an interactive
art installation of Moro Art by the two acclaimed Filipino artists Toym Imao
and Lilianna Manahan who came together to celebrate Moro culture through Manāra.
This interactive art installation officially opened on May 3, 2017 at the Ayala
Museum Plaza.
Since biblical times, men have dared to build structures that
soar to the skies, perhaps symbolizing an acknowledgement of something higher
and beyond mortality. These human endeavors to reach the heavens to become
closer to a creator, or a beacons of enlightenment have been men relentless
goal.
Structures
like the minaret found in surrounding mosques are the inspiration of this art
installation. Manara is an Arabic word that means "lighthouse," where
the term "Minaret" originates. These towers are used as a call to
prayer and showcase the artistry of its builders. In this installation, the
artists pay homage to the minaret, using it as a canvas to show a glimpse into
Muslim Mindanao Culture.
Well represented by two artists from different
backgrounds - one who was nurtured by Islamic traditions and the richness of
the Moro culture of Mindanao, and the other bred by Christianity and modern
design, they find common ground in addressing the issue of differences and
conflict, and how a confluence of ideas borne from different perspectives can
lead to unity amidst diversity.
From the handiwork of
these two artists, the installation features 23 minarets and lanterns, as well
as Moro textiles, wood and metal work, music, and indigenous patterns.
Guests enjoyed exploring the Manāra at the Ayala Museum Plaza which was
showcased from May 3 to May 30.
The installation will then be brought to key sites in Visayas and Mindanao
later this year. Ayala Foundation has also partnered with the City Government
of Marawi for the community-based Siyapen Drug Rehabilitation Center, which was
started earlier this year.
0 comments