Following the success of the “Igorotak: An Illustrated Guide”, a Baguio-based illustrator launches the second edition of the book in a more detailed approach.
Igorot illustrator Tor Sagud said the updated version, which was supposed to be launched in 2020, is more improved and well-researched with the help of educators and cultural experts.
“In the previous one, I admit that it was a single-person research. So, after that, there was a lot of push from our peers and other fans that showed support and they wanted it to be used in schools,” said Sagudof Kankana-ey and Ibaloy descent.
The first edition was launched in 2019 and became a hit in the Cordillera, leading Sagud to be invited in schools and institutions to pre- sent his book and even led him to create a mural from his book illustrations for a local mall in Baguio.
The updated book showcases the gene-ral information about the Igorot culture including the people, cultural attire, flora and fauna, among others in colorful illustrations.
During the book launching on Nov. 12 at Mt. Cloud Book Shop, Sagud said it has always been his desire to present the rich Igorot culture to the world. His talent and skills in the arts, became his medium to bring his advocacy to fruition.
The book is part of the Igorotak book series which includes “Igorotak: Igorot Equipment Collection, Vol. 1” that features the items and tools of the ancient Igorots; “Igorot Creatures Collection, Vol. 1” featuring the mythological creatures in the Cordillera; and “Igorotak-kiddie Bible version” showcasing selected characters and events from scriptures.
Sagud, who recently started his own company, Studio Sagud, said the books were created for the younger audiences to appreciate Cordilleran culture. He is also the co-chair of Gripo Comics, which creates comics promoting the Igorot culture.
“The world changes every minute and so this generation demands a new approach in (learning), so I’ve done this manga type of a book,” he said.
The books went through testing with readers locally and abroad and the res-ponse has been positive.
Sagud is promo-ting his book at the Department of Industry-Cordillera-backed Impakabsat 2022 trade fair at Festival Mall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City until Nov. 27.
Sagud said an Igorot-themed animation project is in the pipeline under Studio Sagud.
To order the books, follow the Studio Sagud account on Facebook. – Ofelia C. Empian
