A 23-year-old Fine Arts student from the University of the Philippines-Cebu is making headlines with his creative and eco-friendly furniture designs. Clent Yanola, hailing from Hilongos, Leyte, turns discarded garlic peels into beautiful furniture pieces. His TikTok video showcasing these designs has gone viral, with 3.3 million views, earning him admiration nationwide.
Clent's path to art wasn't straightforward. He initially studied Political Science, thinking art wasn't a practical career. However, his love for creativity led him to switch to Fine Arts after one semester. This decision, though disappointing to his parents, allowed Clent to fully explore his passion. During an internship at Vito Selma, a famous furniture design studio in Cebu, Clent discovered the potential of garlic peels while searching for new materials at Carbon Market.
Innovative Designs from Garlic Peels
Fascinated by the texture of garlic peels, Clent experimented with their translucency and strength. He collected peels from local vendors and mixed them with bioplastics and seaweed extracts to create sturdy materials. His hard work resulted in unique furniture pieces like lamps inspired by Filipino farmers and minimalist tabletops. Clent's designs, influenced by his rural upbringing, reflect his commitment to sustainability.
Looking Ahead
Clent's work with garlic peels is just the beginning. He aims to explore other waste materials that are abundant in communities, turning them into valuable resources. He envisions a future where waste materials are transformed into functional art, providing additional income for communities. Clent's journey highlights the power of creativity and determination, inspiring other young artists to follow their passions.
"Keep doing what you love. Keep exploring more," Clent encourages fellow students, embodying a spirit of innovation and resilience.
