The Tam-awan Village and Chanum Foundation have announced the celebration of their 25th anniversary this year in conjunction with the 13th Tam-awan International Arts Festival from Oct. 4 to 8, 2023.
The festival, themed “Ajowanan Kaugadian” or traits and practices passed on by our ancestors, will highlight Tam-awan’s mission to promote and preserve Filipino arts and culture.
Since its inception in 1996 by the Chanum Foundation, Tam-awan Village, a renowned cultural village nestled in the heart of Baguio City has been dedicated in raising awareness and appreciation of the Cordillera region’s rich cultural heritage through art, music, and way of life. The silver anniversary will be marked by five day-long festivities, including art exhibits, musical performances, art workshops, lectures and other special events.
The Tam-awan International Arts Festival, the organization’s signature event, will bring together artists from the Cordillera and other parts of the Philippines, as well as international artists, for a celebration of art, music and dance. During this occasion, patrons will be treated to a series of exciting events and activities that showcase the rich heritage and tapestry of the Cordillera culture.
Over the past 25 years, Tam-awan has become a hub for indigenous artists to create, exhibit and sell their works. The village has also offered art workshops and has hosted cultural presentations, helping to pass on traditions to younger generations.
As time passed, the village also began to promote various art styles of artists from different regions from around the country. This milestone anniversary is a testament to the unwavering commitment of Tam-awan Village in bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary arts. Through this festival, we honor our roots and rich heritage as Filipinos, and we look forward to many more years of serving as a home for the Cordilleran culture and arts. About Tam-awan Village: Tam-awan Village is an art gallery, café, and cultural village located in Baguio City, Philippines.
The crafts and indigenous practices are showcased in dances and at the souvenir shop. This contributes to the income of artisans who weave fabrics and baskets and culture bearers who play the gongs and demonstrate the dances in the City. College students earn their weekly allowance through weekend performances of different dances of the mountain people and engage the audience to participate in the tayawor dance. Garbed in the traditional wear of the Kalingas, the authentic customary wear and the preservation of the footwork and the arm movements tell stories of how courtships were presented in ancient times and weddings were festive.
A project of the Chanum Foundation, Tam-awan aims to promote awareness and appreciation of indigenous Filipino culture through art, music, dance and way of life. Renowned for its breathtaking location and traditional native huts, Tam-awan Village has become a beloved cultural destination for both local and international visitors over the past years.
Nestled midst lush, green mountains and surrounded by picturesque landscapes, the village offers a tranquil and immersive experience for those seeking to connect with indigenous culture.
For more information, visit tamawanvillage.com. — Nonnette C. Bennett
