Ba'la Na is a thought-provoking exploration of the children's story about the Monkey and the Turtle, with a twist that reflects on the truth within our current economic system. In the original story, the Turtle tricks the Monkey as revenge for devouring all the bananas from the tree he nurtured. However, in my narrative, the Turtle doesn't resort to trickery but instead relies on the Monkey's empathy and conscience. The Monkey, aware of the Turtle's labor in nurturing the bananas, willingly offers them, highlighting the exploitation often seen in large corporations and their use of cheap labor.
Double King
Acrylic on canvas
13x8.75 in
Emergence
Acrylic on canvas
13x8.75 in
The title Ba'la Na is derived from the Filipino saying "Bahala Na," which can be roughly translated as "Leave it to fate" or "Come what may." It signifies a sense of surrendering to fate and allowing it to take control in order to survive challenging situations. This sentiment resonates with many Filipinos who work within unjust systems, including the cheap labor system, with the hope that fate will somehow protect and sustain them.
Mask On, Mask Off
Acrylic on canvas
13x8.75 in
Full Circle
Acrylic on canvas
13x8.75 in
The Watchman
Acrylic on canvas
13x8.75 in
In addition, the concept Ba’La Na, coming from “Bahala Na,” touches upon the idea of surrender and defeat when things don't go as planned. It incorporates the saying "Bahala Na si Batman," which adds a sense of humor to the situation. This saying essentially means that when faced with overwhelming circumstances or when things go awry, one relinquishes control and leaves it to “Batman” or a higher power to handle the situation.
Matyag
Acrylic on canvas
11x8.75 in
Nardo
Acrylic on canvas
11x8.75 in
Tuso
Acrylic on canvas
13x8.75 in
By including this saying, the series of works delves into the notion of accepting defeat and surrendering when faced with challenging circumstances that seem beyond one's control. It reflects the resilience and adaptability of individuals who find ways to cope and make sense of their circumstances, even when things don't go as planned.
Obey
Acrylic on canvas
12x16 in
Outside the Box
Acrylic on canvas
12x16 in
Makupad
Acrylic on canvas
11x8.75 in
Through this project, I hope to shed light on the complex realities of economic exploitation and the resilience of individuals within such systems. The artworks invite viewers to reflect on the ways in which big corporations often take advantage of vulnerable labor forces and the coping mechanisms employed by those who strive to survive.
Ba’la Na
Acrylic on canvas
33.5x23 in
Sumailalim
Acrylic on canvas
33.5x23 in