Get the best of Domus straight to your inbox!

Evangeline Pesigan: Banta

With a modern interpretation of traditional forms, Evangeline Pesigan shows the versatility, functionality and sensitivity of Filipino craftsmanship.

Evangeline Pesigan, Aninag, Banta collection

Evangeline Pesigan’s work focuses on the hybrid of modern production methods with craftsmanship through a collaborative making process.

By engaging with different artisan communities to contribute to the development process, these pieces challenge the misconceptions and role of design in creating value around social sustainability. Pesigan highlights the rare artisanal skills and community engagement to create economic opportunities and promote the use of local and sustainable materials.

The fluid forms and dynamic interwoven lines are available is two versions inspired by unique qualities of traditional dwellings and basket weaving techniques from the Philippines. The pieces are made of metal wrapped in wood veneer, bamboo rattan and recyclable polyethylene. These materials have flexible properties for transforming the perception of everyday objects, and pushing the process to new limits.

As a design feature, its open structure creates a translucent environment within the chair allowing the user to experience the craft, and connect with the surroundings. It could also be paired with comfortable cushions made with textiles developed with a weaving community located in the Northern part of the Philippines using antique-pedal looms.

The pieces are a modern interpretation of traditional form, reflecting versatility, functionality and sensibility of knowledge and skills distinctly defined by Filipino identity. The conceptual aim is a shared experience, experimentation and knowledge exchange of craft techniques that advocate uniqueness of design and quality of craftsmanship transformed into a new cultural meaning.