"Mga Piraso ng Tahanan" or "Pieces of Home" consists of a screen-printed and hand-painted background representing Leyte as my hometown in the Philippines, and Toronto as my new home in Canada. It also consists of five photos for each "tahanan" that represents the things I found around Toronto that are, in a way, common with what the Philippines have. 

As a first-generation, Filipino-Canadian, I have learned that it is important to always remember your roots and where you came from no matter how far home is. "Tahanan" means home in Tagalog and it is embroidered on the centre of the piece. The embroidery symbolizes traditional art during pre-colonial times in the Philippines; a common hobby for most women. It does not only mean home as a structure but also conveys the feeling of being comfortable in a place.

This piece represents what we are now, and why I rise. My ancestors walk with me as I forge new paths. Teach others our culture, reclaim, and inspire the next generation to connect with our heritage.

to be continued