(Austin, TX – June 18, 2024) – forth space proudly announces the launch of BUMUO: Rebuilding the Filipino Body, a compelling multimedia exhibit that highlights the rich history and ongoing resistance of the Filipino people against imperial exploitation. The exhibit will open on June 29, 2024, from 7-10 p.m. at MASS Gallery, 705 Gunter St., Austin, TX 78702.
BUMUO (pronounced boo-moo-OH, a Tagalog verb that means to build) showcases a narrative experience through a diverse range of media, inviting guests to journey from the origins of colonization in the Philippines to historical resistance movements and towards a future of collective healing. This exhibit not only reflects the resilience and strength of the Filipino community but also aligns with forth space’s mission to amplify the work of underrepresented creatives and build reciprocal artistic economies.
“BUMUO exemplifies our collective memories, strength, and dreams,” explained Regine Malibiran, Exhibit Curator and Founder of forth space. “Through these diverse new bodies of work, we thread our history into the larger fabric of colonialism and ask our community—both as Filipinos and global citizens—to build a future of healing and unity.”
The exhibit’s purpose is to foster conversations around challenging topics within Filipino culture and emphasize global solidarity against oppression. By drawing parallels between colonial violence in the Philippines and current struggles worldwide, BUMUO encourages visitors to reflect on their role in advocating for freedom and understanding across cultures and generations.
The BUMUO team is composed entirely of creatives of color, with a majority being Filipino. This intentional collaboration ensures that the exhibit authentically represents and supports the community it aims to highlight. Featured artists include:
Intel Lastierre: Oil paintings and sculptures referencing historical events like the Treaty of Tordesillas and the Battle of Mactan.
Himaya: Watercolor paintings inspired by cellular structures and the People Power Revolution, alongside a metal and clay sculpture.
Vanessa Atienza: Interactive installations including a recording booth and an intention booth for communal prayer beads.
Regine Malibiran: A contemporary poem reflecting a post-Catholic identity, exploring themes of feminist critique, transformation, and resolution.
Visitors can expect an immersive narrative that guides them through significant events in Filipino history, concluding with a focus on collective healing. The opening reception, in collaboration with Pinoy Potluck ATX, will create a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Filipino backyard party, complete with cultural delicacies like lechon. This project is supported in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department. The exhibit will run through July 27, 2024. Visitors can explore MASS Gallery on Saturdays from 12 to 5 p.m., or book an appointment by emailing forthspaceproductions@gmail.com.
Event Details
Date and Time: June 29, 2024, from 7-10 pm
Location: MASS Gallery, 705 Gunter St., Austin, TX 78702
Admission: Free, RSVP at forthspaceproductions.com/bumuo
Newsletter Sign-Up: Available at forthspaceproductions.com
About forth space
Founded by Regine Malibiran, a writer, community builder, and curator, forth space aims to disrupt the arts industry by promoting the work of underrepresented creatives. With a strong background in cultural arts and community building, Regine leads forth space with a commitment to truth-telling, advocacy, and creative solidarity. forth space is dedicated to cultivating a community of creatives and launching inclusive spaces for artists of color to showcase their craft and talents. For more information, visit forthspaceproductions.com.
