My experience in the Philippines feels both fleeting and never ending at the same time. I wonder if there’s a word to describe this feeling? I’ve been able to cross paths and learn the stories of unique individuals that have enriched my own journey. Almost two years ago I wrote about the lovely duo, Tet & Maggie, two local artists located in Antipolo (hello favorite part of MM!) During my visit to Magel’s home I was able to stop by Cafe Inday and learn the story of Magel’s mother, Inday. The following year Magel gifted me with a precious painting from her late mothers collection. It came at a special time for me and represents so much of who I am and the poignant stage of life I am in.

Here’s a little more about Inday and my painting, Woman.

Inday’s Antipolo home, a filled-to-the-brim abode of color and love, has been nested in by her surviving daughter, Magel, since her mother passed. Located on the property as well is, Cafe Inday, a small cafe that exhibits Inday’s original artworks. Since a young age Magel has appreciated the artworks of her mother encouraging her to be the artist mouthpiece, which is what she continues to do with fervent passion.

Magel shared with me that her mother was a sickly child growing up and in her later years of life her health would suffer again, art was her therapy. Painting was a way Inday not only soothed her suffering but also the suffering of others, including women and those in poverty. In an interview with Artes De Las Filipinas, she explains that art became a way of her personal protest, and what a testament her art continues to be to this day. Her story is a parallel to the much famed Diego Rivera and his political murals in Mexico City.

My Story

I was gifted a painting by Magel in 2018 and admired it frameless for a year before I finally had it properly framed. My paintings title is, Woman ‘92, (Inday always dated her paintings) and it resonates with me so deeply at this stage of life. My role as a mother growing children in my body and raising babies+toddlers has come to an end. They’re growing up, off to school and I am left with my own body once again. It’s been weird figuring out who I am in addition to but also independent of my title, ‘mother’. This painting reminds me that I am woman full of color and life. I love it so deeply. It’s incredible how an artists living days come to a close but their message and gifts to the world live on.

Living Art Works

Magel is still dedicated to her efforts of sharing her mother’s gift with the world. She recently launched an exhibit at Bahay Nakpil and has one now in Casa Nieves in Robinson’s Anitpolo. If you’re feeling inspired or need inspiration, stop by.

You can always schedule to visit Cafe Inday and Inday Cadapan Home Gallery.

The more we immerse ourselves in the local culture, arts, food, volunteering, whatever it may be, the more connected we feel. And from my own experience, the better people we become.

Kita Kita,

Amber

P.S.

Philippine handicrafts have always tugged tightly at my heart, colors fill me with joy and shoes, well, shoes are always good. I happened to be gifted these shoes from Tapak Pinay based out of Liliw, Laguna and uses female artisans to make her shoes. The colors, artistry and the painting made me happy so a photo shoe-t ensued. Get it!?!