Kapwa Kollection
a collection of jewelry, amulets, and talismans inspired by symbols from my Filipino heritage
Re-imagining the Sacred
During the colonization of the archipelago now known as the Philippines Islands, much of the metal jewelry, amulets, and talismans were stolen and melted down to fund the colonizers’ conquests. The Kapwa Kollection is a reimagining of sacred objects, inspired by various indigenous Filipino tattoo motifs, amulets, and other symbols that have been preserved.
The Meaning of Kapwa
Kapwa translated from Tagalog literally means, ‘neighbor,’ ‘other,’ or ‘both.’ However, some argue that this English translation is incomplete because it can not embody the uniquely Filipino world view which gives it a deeper meaning. Kapwa as a concept is best expressed as, ‘shared inner-self,’ ‘people of shared identity,’ or ‘self-in-the-other.’ It is the Filipino concept of interconnection and interdependence. The concept is present and highly valued in many indigenous Filipino cultures and was popularized by Filipino psychologist, Virgilio Enriquez. Kapwa as a concept has gained popularity among Filipinos actively engaged in decolonizing work and reviving cultural practices.
Paying it Forward
When you purchase from the Kapwa Kollection I will donate 15% of my profits to organizations that are supporting indigenous rights, and preserving ancestral knowledge and traditions including the Sinixt Nation, RAVEN, and the Tao Foundation for Arts & Culture. Learn more.