Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago: Roots and Currents is a multi-artist project that focuses on the contemporary art of the island of Mindanao and the nearby Sulu Archipelago, including Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan. Located in the southernmost part of the Philippines, the Mindanao region has a rich and fascinating culture, yet its artists are often marginalised by regional isolation, an environment of instability and conflict, inaccessibility, or perceptions of their indigenous status or Islamic culture. This project brings together artwork from across the ‘tri-culture’ of indigenous, Bangsomoro (Islamic) and settler-root peoples. Textiles, woodcarving and ceremonial baskets are shown alongside paintings, video and sculpture, raising awareness of local stories, cultural heritage and innovation, indigenous knowledge, social justice and self-determination specific to the region. Among the many highlights are new paintings by Talaandig cultural leader Salima Saway Agra-an, carved Tausug kites (Taguri) by Rameer Tawasil; and innovations on ikat weaving by Blaan artist Alfred Sarino.

Artists

Ulih Acub, Maimona Kusain and Minal P Salunsun

Harija Alaw and Nadia Allih

Karma Gadjali Amilbangsa and Ruhina Rajik Muhaimer

Krisher Bayani Appay

Adjani Arumpac

Bilma Ausalin Hatamun

Kiri Dalena

Cian Dayrit

Joel Geolamen

Misrifa and Nursima Juhaili

Mijan Jumalon

Julie Lluch

Almanis Madjidul, Radzimir Madjidul and Shaidalyn Zaldy

Yab Trulan Man

Rhudsia Jamih Mohammad

Noemi Ofong

Piguras Davao

Silling Sabturani

Alfred (Soy) Sarino

Salima Saway Agra-an

Raymond (Jong) Tangiday

Rameer Tawasil

Chong Tecson

Mark Tolentino

Judelyn Mae Villarta

Mohammad N Haji Zaman