The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco is proud to present an extraordinary exhibit, celebrating the ancient Filipino practices of tattooing and the baybayin script. This unique exhibit, titled “Bagong Liwanag 2: Baybayin Tattoos,” features the work of San Jose-based Filipino tattoo artist Jeff Maronilla-Seva Quintano. The exhibit–part of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month–is open at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center until May 31.
Rediscovering Ancient Traditions
"Bagong Liwanag" ("New Light") initially premiered at San Francisco’s Sentro Filipino and now brings its rich cultural narrative to the Kalayaan Hall. The exhibit highlights the Filipino American community’s efforts to reconnect with their heritage through traditional tattooing and baybayin, an ancient Filipino script. Consul General Neil Ferrer noted the exhibit’s alignment with the Philippines' National Heritage Month, celebrated every May.
“The theme this year, ‘Championing Heritage: Capacity Building to Transform Communities,’ honors those dedicated to connecting with indigenous communities and promoting local creativity,” Ferrer stated. He emphasized the exhibit's role in showcasing the cultural and historical importance of these art forms.
Breaking Stereotypes and Embracing Identity
Tattooing, a revered practice in pre-colonial Philippines, had faced social stigma over the years. The Consulate aims to dispel these misconceptions by highlighting tattoos as symbols of identity, kinship, and personal history.
“Tattoos are more than just skin-deep expressions of pride. They represent a long-lost tradition that connects individuals to their ancestral roots and enhances their understanding of their Filipino identity,” Ferrer explained. The exhibit also honors cultural advocates like Taipan Lucero and Kristian Kabuay, who work to preserve and promote these indigenous art forms.
Celebrating Cultural Resilience
The exhibit will culminate in a special event on May 31, featuring the world premiere of Quintano’s documentary “Bagong Liwanag” and a screening of “Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok” (“The Woman Behind the Tattooist”), which tells the story of Kalinga tattoo artist Whang-od. This event is in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines, further emphasizing the cultural significance of the showcase.
Quintano expressed his optimism for the future, noting, “Seeing our script on street signs, logos, tattoos, and more signals acceptance, youth interest, and government support. Embracing our identity uplifts spirits and fosters resilience in a world where minorities face unequal treatment.”
The “Bagong Liwanag 2: Baybayin Tattoos” exhibit offers a meaningful celebration of Filipino heritage, demonstrating the enduring relevance of ancient traditions in modern society.
