Artwork Collection

NO DIRECT TRANSLATION

NO DIRECT TRANSLATION is an exploration of Tagalog words and phrases with their meanings that although begin with uniquely Filipino experiences, transcends language and moves past translation, aiming towards universalities regardless of one’s background.

Filipino Diaspora Illustration Culture.

Illustration

KILIG

“KILIG” is a rush. A momentary infatuation. A small high you get when your eyes meet and the nerve endings spark.

Illustration

AMOY ARAW

“AMOY ARAW” means you smell like the sun. Nostalgia smells like playing outside.

Illustration

ANG MAHAL NA MAHAL KITA

I Love you so so much. An altruistic act of cutting fruit.

Illustration

BALIKBAYAN

“BALIKBAYAN” is a return home. Would you still return to a home you never knew?

Illustration

KAPWA

“KAPWA” is a shared identity. A connection through blood and ancestry between Filipinos, and a welcoming hand towards all people.

Illustration

MANO PO

“MANO PO” is a sign of respect. Asking your elders for their hand, a gesture towards ancestry.

Illustration

TABI TABI PO

“TABI TABI PO” is a spiritual request to the earth asking to please step aside. We must move through the environment with mutual care and respect.

Illustration

TAO PO (HINDI ASWANG)

“TAO PO (HINDI ASWANG)” means I am human, and not an Aswang. Asserting our humanity everyday, and looking within others for the Human.

Work by

Ito Palaganas

Illustration

“"NO DIRECT TRANSLATION" is an exploration of Tagalog words and phrases with their meanings that although begin with uniquely Filipino experiences, transcends language and moves past translation,...” [More]