Making a Statement through Woven Art

A 27-year-old architect-cum-artist-cum-writer has been making a statement in the world of fine art. And it’s not just a statement – it’s a Filipino statement woven in his every masterpiece. The first and only painter of acrylic on banig as canvas, Jomike Tejido has given our very own hand-woven mat a new purpose in life – to promote environmental awareness and showcase the richness of Filipino art and culture.

One need not be seriously arty to be able to appreciate Jomike’s works. It was such a wonder seeing his paintings in his mini studio at his residence in New Manila, Quezon City. It felt more like wandering in the woods with all the colorful natural creations than visiting an intimidating art museum. The large art piece of “Ang Mga Ibon sa Bundok Tabor” inspired from a chapter of our very own Ibong Adarna tale, grabbed attention with its vivid colors and detailed execution. “Morning Forest,” on the other hand was a delight to the senses. The bright color combination of yellow and orange can move one to a happy state and say “Good morning, sunshine!” Significantly, the texture of banig makes his every art work more impressive.

Even more exciting was talking to the man behind the amazing banig paintings, who despite his many accomplishments has remained humble and modest. From his first banig art, which was sent as an entry to Japan-based Noma Concours 2000 and the ones that won a finalist medal in NC 2006, Jomike has created more that very well speak of his high regard for the environment and the Filipino culture. Here, Jomike speaks more about his love for art and the purpose of his endeavors.

Please tell us something about yourself.

I am an only child and have been into art since I was very little. I studied in Ateneo from grade school to high school and in UST for college. My parents, who are both architects, influenced me a lot while growing up, and reminded me of a balanced life of academics, art, enviro-awareness, sports and family life. The school kept me in a competitive level, as art teachers let me join competitions and the general academic-driven school taught me to multitask.

What is your specialization as an architect?
After I graduated in 2005, I worked for JT Manosa & Associates, then since 2007 when I got my license, I have been working for our own firm, Tejido Architecture and Art.We do modern Filipino designs. We infuse local materials and sometimes infuse these to modern homes and condo interiors. Our current project, the Acacia Grove Hotel which is set in Alabang, is a Filipino-inspired hotel and will bear banig precast concrete as part of our statement. It is currently in its design stage.

How did you get into painting?

I got into painting because it is just my favorite thing to do- create, draw, paint-- anything creative that I can get my hands into. I pioneered the banig painting in the Philippines and plan to make a mark in the world of fine art.

How did you get into banig painting, in particular?

I joined a contest called Noma Concours in 2000 and I entered banig painting as a way to showcase our country's agri products and therefore to serve as a statement as well as a unique art form which no one else has done. Gusto ko kasing kakaiba, yung hindi pa nagagawa. May gumawa na sa kahoy, may gumawa na sa papel yung sa canvas. So may list ako ng mga hindi pa nagagamit tapos nag- cancel out lang ako. Hanggang nauwi sa banig.

I did not win (the contest), and then I entered again in 2006 and won a finalist medal. I received a travel grant from the NCCA (National Commission for Culture and Art), and I was able to go to Japan and claim my award in the ceremony. There have been only 14 Filipinos who have won this award since the competition started in the early 1980's. I was the 13th. This success jumpstarted my career and made me decide on keeping banig as my signature look.

What inspired you to do such innovation?

The contest inspired me, as well as the fact that I pioneered it. Having my own identity set it apart from other painting media. The double-purpose of promoting fine art, Filipino culture, Filipino products and innovation in the world of fine arts makes me feel I’m doing something for myself (to achieve) a second career, and for the country, as I bring my works abroad for exhibits.

What is your very first banig painting?

The first one was more of an illustration and was done using non-acrylic paints. It gave a transparent look and it was for the 2000 Noma Concours. As for painting, I first made small rectangles and did non -representational abstract and sold them in Kish, a home designer store used to be located in Greenbelt 3 (Ayala Center, Makati). The reception was slow, but there were buyers. That audience-test was sufficient for me to study how I can improve and develop it.

When did you first showcase your work outside the Philippines?

As a Noma Concours finalist, I had a warm reception from the Japanese and other nationalities from Asia Pacific and the Carribean. I was part of the group show in Ueno, Tokyo, where everyone was happy to see my Fil-Muslim (Maranao) inspired works.

My first exhibit outside the country was in 2008 in the Volvo art loft in Singapore. I applied for it independently and the Philippine consul general was glad to assist us in various ways when we got to Singapore. It was a rich experience to showcase the works to different nationalities, noting that Singapore is known as a melting pot of various nationalities from Americans to Canadians, Chinese, Indians and art university professors. They all have not seen a banig painter and I was happy for that response.

What sets a banig painting apart from the traditional canvas?

The texture is a great deal, and its preparation may be more expensive due to the added materials and preparation needed. The mats come from an export banig supplier which treats the mats prior to delivery and has assured quality.

How does it differ in terms of execution?

The paint applies roughly and often is difficult to achieve small details. The mat surprises me at times with regards to how the paint adheres. This process makes it unpredictable and makes me create things I do not expect.

What are the memorable banig paintings you have created?

The Butanding, the Tree that Captured the Stars, and the Castles series.

Butanding was one of the largest (art) pieces that I have made – 8 ft. x 3ft. diptych, meaning, two 3 ft x 4 ft paintings glued together. In 2008, I partnered with Haribon Foundation for an art exhibit. That night, there’s also a musical play. The audience of the musical, became my viewers, too. There came the buyers of Butanding, a Canadian couple based in the Philippines.

Do you consider yourself nationalistic?

I’m nature-oriented. Even as a child, my art works were geared toward environmental awareness. That’s my interest, also animals. When I reached high school and then college, the idea of using art to promote my country grew on me.

As an artist, who are your influences?

I look into a lot of artists in different fields, and even architectural designs that can be translated into painting. The Bauhaus and the De Stijl movements are schools of thought that have inspired me to work with squares and work out of them, distort them and combine a series of contrasting shapes and forms that make up a balanced piece.

Who has created the greatest impact on your career? Why?

All people, especially Filipinos who have made their mark in the world for doing something great. I want to be part of those who have done what they love doing, and make a serious effect in making the world better through their creations. WILLETH LAUS

Besides being a licensed architect and banig artist, Jomike Tejido is also an award-winning children’s book illustrator and writer. He is the creator of Transformers-inspired Foldabots, folder-made robots that transform into automobiles, and former host of ABC 5’s art show, Art is Kool. View Ad.