Faculty of Design

Illustration

Aimee Xiao

Carabao Nipa Hut

“Carabao Nipa Hut” addresses Albularyos importance in the Philippines because of their deeply rooted beliefs in folklore and folk medicine. The Carabao-shaped nipa hut shop displays potions and remedies made from traditional herbs and roots for sale. The healing hands of Albularyos reach across the island performing hilot using herbs recognized in indigenous Filipino healing practices, which grow around the shop.

“This is a part of my thesis series Unfamiliar Familiars, which imagines and considers the presence and energy of national animals as familiars that assist witches in magic for good and selfless purposes. More illustrations can be viewed on my website!”