Subaanen Crafts Project
For decades the Columbans have worked with the tribal Subanen people of Mindanao in the Philippines. Since the 1950s the Subanen homeland in the rainforest has seen an influx of settlers from the lowlands. Loggers followed by land hungry farmers have exploited the forest. The shy Subanen retreated deeper into the dwindling forest where they face a precarious future. Since the 1980s Columbans have worked with the Subanen and have developed a deep respect for their traditions, culture and language. This respect has resulted in the Subanen Crafts Project which aims to generate income especially for the women.
Subanen artisans create intricately woven crafts and bead work. In the Project this skill was combined with their deep bond with their habitat. Since 2000, the Subanen women have produced exquisite Creation mandalas, mobiles and earrings. Each circular hoop in the mandala represents an event in the story of creation. The mandala is accompanied by a booklet which explains each symbol and provides a prayer to the Spirit.
Money from the sale of these goods is returned directly to the artists who created them. This income has allowed some of the younger women to return to formal education and finish high school, while others have been enabled to educate their children for a brighter future. But the benefits of the Project go beyond what money can buy. The praise of all who see the detailed workmanship has raised the self-esteem of the weavers and their families.
"Many thanks to you. I have received the mandala and it is all you said. I was moved to tears by its beauty and as I contemplated the plight of these beautiful people who have been so marginalised. It is a lesson to all of us that they have preserved their personal beauty and dignity. - Maureen Connolly, Paynesville, Victoria.
Thank you again to Fr Busch and the Columbans for bringing all these issues to us in The Far East."
The Subaanen crafts featured in this article can be purchased through the Columban Mission Centre. All proceeds from these orders go directly to the Subaanen Crafts Project.
SUBAANEN CRAFTS PROJECT PRODUCTS
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| Christmas Cards | Creation Mandala | Thank You Cards | Sun Catcher |
To order contact:
Columban Mission Centre, PO Box 752, Niddrie, Vic 3042
Ph: (03) 9375 9475 Fax: (03) 9379 6040 E-mail: info@columban.org.au or please fill in our Enquiry Form
