Ateneo de Davao University

GE 1107 Art Appreciation

Worksheet:
Reading the Image/Object

Instructions:
1. Visit the virtual museum of Museo Dabawenyo at https://bit.ly/3g4c8uI
2. Explore the objects in the museum by navigating the buttons you see in your screen.
3. Observe each object. Select the visual art that appeals to you the most.
4. Research about the visual art that you have selected.
5. Answer the worksheet below.
6. Download this worksheet. Upload it back with your answers in this Assignment tab.
7. Write your own analysis below. Make sure to cite atleast three proper sources.

READING THE IMAGE

Name of the Object/ Artifact: Tri-People

Photo of the Object/ Artifact (Insert a screenshot or photo of the object here)

BASIC DOCUMENTARY INFORMATION

Title of the Work/ Name of the Object: Tri-People
Name of the Artist/ Indigenous Group: Banjo Satorre Jr.
Medium and Techniques: Mix Media
Dimensions and Measurements: 72 x 72 x 3 inches.
Date of Work: 2001
Provenance: Davao City, Davao del Sur, Mindanao

THE BASIC SEMIOTIC PLANE

The Visual Elements and how they are used:
The Choice of Medium and Technique
Format of the Work
Other Physical Properties

This artwork employs both complimentary and monochromatic color schemes, such
as red and green, orange and blue, yellow and violet, and so on.

Various geometric shapes such as diamond, square, oval, and circle can be seen
throughout the artwork, with the "Lumad" component of the image standing out. Meanwhile,
both straight and curved lines, such as horizontal, vertical, diagonal, and curved, can be
noticed in the artwork's three topics, particularly in the middle of the painting. The texture
of this artwork is also smooth and flowing, with a wood-like touch.

Additionally, various ukkil or okir patterns may be visible in the "Muslim" area of the
image, representing the Maranaos' intrinsic individuality and talents. This work of art is a
two-dimensional mixed-media sculpture comprised of carving, beading, and numerous paint
strokes.

THE ICONIC PLANE

The people of Mindanao are the main theme of this artwork, which depicts three
Davao City residents: Moro/Islam (10%), Christians (85%), and Lumads (5%). Sundae
Scoops (Via, F., 2016). The "Islam" component of the artwork emphasizes ukkil or okir
patterns, which are common in Maranaos and Muslim-influenced art. A cross is also
highlighted in the "Christian" part of the painting's forehead, indicating Christianity.
Furthermore, the "Lumad" area of the artwork emphasizes mathematical patterns that are
interlaced in its artistry. This piece of art expresses a specific message about Davao City's
cultural variety and how its citizens welcome and value diverse cultures and traditions. As a
consequence, the piece's designer wishes to demonstrate his or her respect for local culture
and arts.

THE CONTEXTUAL PLANE

The artwork's theme has social relevance. The artwork represents harmony, balance,
and respect among Davao City's tri-peoples of Christians, Lumads, and Muslims. Over the
years, many types of violence have been misinterpreted and condemned in the Philippines'
southern area. As a consequence, "the people who reside here have been considered as
aggressive, and some would claim that visiting the southern portion of the Philippines is
risky and unsafe" (Phil S, Nomads, 2020). Mindanao, on the other hand, stands out for its
diversity and its people's tolerance and respect for diverse cultures and traditions. As a
consequence, this artwork demonstrates that cultural diversity may be accomplished via
cultural understanding and tolerance.

THE EVALUATIVE PLANE

"Tri-People" by Desiderio "Banjo" Satorre, Jr. is a work of cultural understanding,
preservation, and creating unity among different ethnicities and traditions. The intricate
details hidden in the three faces, as well as the importance of these aspects, emphasize the
cultures of Muslims, Christians, and Lumads, as well as the beauty of harmonious cultural
diversity in Davao City. Furthermore, one of the artwork's qualities is how the
methodological and visual components were combined to produce a masterpiece. This
piece's theme is about recognizing our differences and civilizations. As a consequence, this
artwork serves as a reminder to respect our differences while still embracing our culture
and traditions.

REFLECTION QUESTION:
What is the power of this art?

The painting shows both the power of art to awaken our senses and the power of art
for the artist. This artwork piques our interest since it represents the peaceful and friendly
relationship that has prevailed in Davao City throughout the years between Muslims,
Christians, and Lumads. Furthermore, the artist aims to demonstrate to our respect for
culture and variety via this painting, which has the power of art for the artist. As a
consequence, this artwork taught me the importance of embracing our own culture and
traditions. As a consequence of this artwork, I was able to realize the significance of accepting
and embracing diverse cultures and customs.

REFERENCES:

https://steemit.com/philippines/@zam398/tri-people-of-mindanao-christians-
lumadsandmuslims-
representing-diversity
https://steemit.com/arts/@maribel3/the-okkir-or-okkil
https://maranaoculture.wordpress.com/2016/09/14/first-blog-post/
https://sundaescoops.wordpress.com/tag/banjo-satorre-jr/
https://www.mindanews.com/arts-culture/2019/10/mindanaoart-1-of-10-meander-by-
art-portal-galleryfor-
contemporary-art/
https://pluralartmag.com/2021/04/10/getting-at-the-heart-of-jag-buenos-hybrid/
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/334555/Local-News/History-culture-at-Museo-
Dabawenyo
https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/insecurity-mindanao-conflict-and-state-
sponsored-violence