by: Lilo Gutierrez

Women friends of mine mentioned that they did not see any Babaylans in my paintings, I had to research on the meaning of this familiar Filipino word. This inspired me to create art works from the ethereal to the almost real.

It was then suggested that I form a group of women artists and friends and exhibit words that portray the Filipino multi-tasking, miracle working women.

Given less than two months notice, I was confident (with a hint of doubt) that the women I know and the others I have invited have agreed on this almost impossible exhibit.

The tasks begin. We missed having a vacation for Holy Week to meet our ingress deadline and so far so good.

There are no invitation printouts for we believe that these invitations will hurt mother earth.

This show is the first of many more exhibits of the Makabagong Babaylans. To honor and praise the women who inspire us to be as great as our ancestors and continue being the goddesses of today and tomorrow.

Art work of Babaylans on Exhibit: Aca Verzosa, Anna De Leon, Jemina, Lilo Gutierrez, Merlina Naldo, Migs Villanueva, Tessa Diamse-Alcantara and Larry Leviste

Exhibit opens on April 12 until April 30, 2010 in the Sining Kamalig Gallery, Fourth Level, Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines