Shambala

11/12/2009

Traditionally, the word shambala denotes a mythical kingdom that came to mean a pure land. In another meaning, it represents a place of peace and security, particularly one situated near water. Lately, this is the nickname, art collector, Rissa Muyot, uses for her sanctuary in Silang, Cavite. She envisions turning the area into an art and culture haven to exhibit indigenous Filipino art and architecture. At the moment, the most distinctive structures on site are the Ifugao huts nestled along the slopes of her property. At the foot of the hill flows a stream of running water.

Rissa’s advocacy is the preservation of Filipino arts and crafts. Realizing that the authentic Ifugao huts are fast disappearing from regular use, she imported some from the North, reassembled and restored it on her property, and hopes that more people can be made aware and appreciate its cultural value.

She observes that in this age when life has become dependent on machinery and computer technology, the skills and inclination for handicrafts is dying. So, she opted to devote her time and resources to the preservation, honing, and promotion of these time-honored arts. She decided to develop her 1.5 hectare property, converting it in the manner of an artists’ village, where crafters, artisans, and even just art lovers and collectors are welcome to live, work, and display their creations.

Because work is still ongoing in the main House/Gallery, many of her treasured pieces are currently in storage, such as paintings, wood works, cloth and basket weaves, jewellery, pottery, sculptures, and handicrafts from all around the country. But already the call must be made for all artists that an artists’ village, albeit on a smaller scale than Bali’s Ubud area, is on its way. Here she wants to combine the old arts with modern amenities, a place where even guests can experience and live Filipino culture first-hand.

Certainly many people hunger for beauty and culture and some travel far and wide to fill it. However, not everyone can fully commit to go out of their way and do something to preserve them.  Endeavours such as this may take more than a lifetime to complete, but even just to initiate one speaks of the love, dedication, and vision of its proponent.

In behalf of the Filipino community who appreciates art and the future communities who will benefit from its preservation, thank you Shambala!