Indigenous art materials

Indigenous art materials

• Indigenous art materials are natural or inherent to a place or locality.

• Local art materials can be a mix of indigenous and introduced art materials.

Abaca

• Abaca, or manila hemp, is extracted from the leaf sheath around the trunk of the abaca plant.

  • Initially used for ropes, it is now used in arts.

  • Found in plantations in the Bicol Region and Mindanao.

Coconut Shells

• Coconut shells are used for wood carving, cooking utensils, and other purposes.

  • Laminated coconut shells resemble turquoise shells or ivory.

  • Abundant in areas with coconut palm trees.

Bamboo

• Bamboo, classified as a grass, is found throughout the Philippines.

  • The stem is versatile and commonly used in art.

Capiz shells

• Capiz shells come from the windowpane oyster and are abundant in the Philippines.

  • Used for windows, lanterns, and walling.

Rattan

• Rattan is a renewable palm used in furniture, handicrafts, and building material.

  • Grown in plantations in Western Visayas and Mindanao.

Cowrie shells

• Small cowrie shells are used in shell jewelry and crafts.

  • Found on sandy seafloors around the Philippine islands.

Junk

• Junk materials are repurposed for junk art.

  • Often made of plastic, wood, and metal.

Dried leaves

• Dried leaves are plentiful and used in creating artistic mats.

  • Palm, pandanus, or sea grass leaves are commonly used.

Plant seeds

• Plant seeds like corn, sorghum, and sunflower seeds are used in seed art.

  • Known for their creative and colorful designs.

Rocks and sand

• Rocks and sand of various types are abundant and used in various art forms.

Traditional and non traditional

• Local art materials can be traditional (e.g., crayons, watercolor) or non-traditional (e.g., coffee, plastic bottles).

• Non-traditional materials are similar to those used in junk