For the month of March, we are excited to spotlight Tor Sagud, the author of the Igoratak book series, available in the Pamana Library. In this special edition, Tor delves into the Cultural Significance for Modern Filipino Artists, sharing his thoughts on how his work connects to contemporary Filipino identity and the evolving role of art in the Philippines today. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore his reflections on the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern artistic expressions.
Cultural Significance for Modern Filipino Artists by Tor Sagud
“Ang hindi marunong magmahal sa sariling wika ay higit pa sa hayop o malansang isda.” —Dr. Jose Rizal
A notable quote by Dr. Rizal, our National Hero, refers to people who don’t love their language as worse than animals or smelly fish. This relates to the appreciation and development of many modern industries, one of which is the creative industry.
I consider everyone to be artists, since all are practitioners in creating art. It also doesn’t just apply to people making visual art, playing music, or performing arts. Being an artist also applies to mentors who teach their art of communication in class, or doctors who perform their medical art in the emergency room, or even to scientists who make formulas and innovative tools that help develop convenience for our daily lives. Skill in art does not necessarily preclude innovation and analytical skill, though – examples of those who excelled in both fields include Leonardo Da Vinci and Nicola Tesla, both artistic and analytic. They considered themselves artists and their works have played a major role in the development of their respective industries and others.
“What am I looking for?”
Artists or people tend to ask this broad question. Whether they’re conscious of it or not, people search for this fulfillment to fill that void and help them feel alive or whole. This is likely why we see artistic people create works that have a certain touch of mysticism. Some also find identity in their culture by adorning themselves with cultural accessories and clothing.
“The great misconception about culture”
In my encounterwith different locals throughout the Philippines, I’ve observed that the word “culture” is perceived as something backward and primitive. This is a serious misconception that has roots deep within our county’s history. This is why most Filipinos are ignorant and unappreciative of their own local culture. Thus, we have the “crab mentality”- the desire for the larger group to hold back those who are successful.
“Culture as the backbone for development”
Culture isn’t just about wearing native attire and performing ethnic rituals. It is about the way of lifeof our ancestors – their community lifestyle, belief system, level of education, and innovation, among others. By understanding and using our culture, we could propel our different industries, like da Vinci and Tesla who revolutionized the worlds of science and art. We can observe this kind of cultural thinking in the Japanese cartoon shows, or “anime”, where traditional elements of Japanese culture are highlighted and appreciated. This continues to be a significant part present-day anime creations.
“Filipino creative skill”
In elementary school, I discovered a dusty local Filipino literature book in class. I noticed the quality of the concept and its writings were just as good as the works made abroad. In high school, I encountered Dr. Rizal’s literature like Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. Seeing these great works inspired me to create more cultural-bearing books capable of competing internationally. It will be just a matter of time before more of my fellow Filipinos develop a deeper appreciation of and give more support for their local creative books.
“My solution as an Artist”
I created the Igorotak Book Series to refute cultural misconceptions about Filipino culture, especially in Northern Luzon. The series, visualized in a cartoonish-illustration style, presents the Igorot culture, one of the many ethnic groups in the Philippines. I applied my humble creative skills to create illustrations and layouts which could appeal to a modern audience. I want to relay the importance of history and culture to our society, and also to showcase the potential of creative people if they are commissioned properly. The book series has also been used as a reference for budding authors and concept artists.
I have plans for more projects involving other local cultures but there’s a limit to what one person can do. So, we all need to be culture-bearers: educate yourself about your culture, and use your creative talents to share it with others.
Tor Alvarez Sagud is an animation director, producer, comic artist, illustrator, designer and a painter. He is also a book author, publisher, an educational and literary writer. Tor got his degree in Secondary Education from the University of the Cordilleras. He has taught animation, illustration, and content development at the Central Luzon School of Arts, and arts and design at the Cordillera School of Digital Arts, Inc. He has also worked as a graphic novel artist for Gripo Comics. Tor is one of the founders of the Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists, which has played a major role in leading Baguio City into becoming the “Creative City: that we know today. He is a published author and artist with works including Magnum and Kislap Tahimik. His company, Studio Sagud, produces educational and cultural books such as the Igorotak series, which contributes to the preservation of the remaining vestiges of Igorot history. Tor and his work have received many awards, including Baguio Midland Courier’s “Graphic Artist of the Year” and “Igorot Book of the Year” in 2020, and JCI Phil’s “Outstanding Young Men” of 2023 as “Heritage Promoter”. Studio Sagud was awarded with Baguio City’s “Emerging Leadership Program” award in 2024.
Tor’s Igoratak series is available at the Rizal Center Pamana Children’s Library in Chicago. Be sure to check them out on your next visit!
Read about Pamana Children’s Library story and our mission by visiting our page on the Rizal Center website: https://rizalcenter.org/programs/pamana-childrens-library/.
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