Thursday, May 31, 2007 Ben Ferrales: A tale of Filipino ingenuity on textiles unfolds tonight
FASHION not only distinguishes a people from others, but also tells a myriad of tales about communities around the world.
Indian women’s saris, for one, are inspired by the legend of the god Krishna fulfilling his promise; the bamboo- designed Japanese kimono is a sign of good luck for the wearer during winter; and Arab clothing say a lot about the country’s history and religion.
In the Philippines, tales of virtue, practicality and authority are intricately woven into various colorful textiles.
The B’laan Dreamweavers create vivid textiles depicting their conversations with God. High regard for modesty is also evident in Apayao women’s tapis (skirt) which reaches below the knee, and in the Maguindanaoans’ long sleeves. Headdresses may also be functional containers, just like the Bicol Aeta’s takupis, or a diadem showing authority as worn by the datus of Mindanao.
Among Filipino designers, Ben Farrales is best known for his advocacy for Filipiniana and indigenous patterns in imaginative and color-rich designs which lean toward Muslim-inspired creations. One of the 2005 Ten Outstanding Filipino awardees, Mang Ben once said, “When you think of Ben Farrales, you think of Muslim—[a particular style] that will not be lost in the shuffle.”
Tonight at 7 p.m., at the Waterfront Hotel in Lahug Cebu, the Dean of Philippine Fashion will present Retrospect: Collection of Ben Farrales—a tale of Filipino ingenuity on stitches and fabrics. Forming part of the National Heritage Month, the show is organized by the Filipino Heritage Festival and sponsored by the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts, the Department of Tourism, Air Philippines, the Cebu Waterfront Hotel and Casino, SM Cebu, HSBC, Ralph Wines and Spirits, Charlie, Y101, and Fashion TV.
For tickets, contact Cebu Waterfront Hotel and Casino at (032)232–6888 Honey Jarque Loop at (032)232–1480 or 0917–620 040 or Philip Rodriguez at tel. Number 253-6569.
