Kaya Ko Rin
A filipiniana part of series Saan Ka Galing (2024)
Designed, sewn, and hand embroidered during my artist residency at @fishfactoryis Iceland
Sleeves intentionally made without any stabilizer to mimic the loose and less-structured sleeves historically worn by the working class in Manila
Straps designed to emulate the aerial roots of the monstera
The Philippines biggest export is ourselves.
Our skills, our labor, our creativity... our entire beings.
The economic system forces Filipinx to look for a "better life" outside the archipelago while colonial thought engrains promises in the American/Western dream.
Each time I looked up at this monstera in awe of our shared brethren ties to the tropics
I thought of how amazing the Filipinx people are in our ability to adjust -- thrive even-- in these completely different environments.
I'm also reminded that what brought me to Iceland was my own pursuit, my own privilege. I initially felt guilt in that comparison of purposes but this privilege to move freely by choice and not by economic or colonial forces is something I want for all of us. All of us, too, deserve to see the world for the joy of it.
I dedicate this filipiniana to the diaspora
whose roots are worn on the sleeve
And are ready to stabilize and breathe in anew
While deeply holding onto where we are truly rooted to.