Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago: Roots and Currents

Joel Geolamen / Habilin (Tausug 2) 2021 / Oil on canvas / 76.2 x 152.4cm / Purchased 2024 with funds from the Bequest of Noela Clare Deutscher, in memory of her parents, A Evans Deutscher and Clare Deutscher, through the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art Foundation / Courtesy and © Joel Geolamen / Image courtesy: The artist / View full image

Abraham Ambo Garcia Jr (CO-CURATOR)
Al Nezzar-Ali and Emi Englis (LOCAL ADVISORS)

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.