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MALAYBALAY CITY (MindaNews/10 February) – “Balaghusay,” a depiction of the traditional tribal arbitrator in the Talaandig community and nine other art works by the tribe’s visual artists are featured in the postcards published by Likhang-Lahi last year.
Painted by Salima Saway-Agraan, the art work depicts the qualities every balaghusay must possess, according to the description at the back of the postcards.
Tribal arbitrators are known to possess “the ability to bend without breaking, a cool mind, a pure heart, and a balanced judgment that derives its weight from Talaandig culture.”
Visual artist and musician Rodelio “Waway” Saway, leader of the group, said that featuring their visual art works has motivated many young Talaandigs to pursue the craft.
Saway said the paintings and the postcards showcase the Talaandig people and their culture.
The postcards come in a set of 10 priced at P450 and will be sold in shops during the Kaamulan festival and in bookstores.
Saway’s group uses soil in their paintings and other art works. Saway said in an earlier interview it is a tribute to nature.
The Lumads connect their identity as a people to Mother Earth. They said that Mt. Kitanglad and its foothills provide an “abundant palette of hues” for their art.
The Talaandigs mainly inhabit the barangays of Lantapan town in Bukidnon near Mt. Kitanglad. (Walter I. Balane/MindaNews)