TAM-AWAN MARKS SILVER ANNIVERSARY

September 30, 2023 Opinion

Tam-Awan a catalyst for jumpstarting creative economies Tam-Awan has become a catalyst for jumpstarting creative economies in the city. From its humble beginning in 1998 as the brainchild of a group of artists, Tam-awan Village has evolved to become a top tourist destination in Baguio City, bringing much needed economic growth for artists, artisans and its immediate community, Pinsao
Proper.

Its transformation not only preserved the cultural heritage of the region but also brought about economic opportunities for the local community by bringing in tourists to the artist village, a trickle down effect happened to the area, which saw the opening of small restaurants and cafes, transient homes and museums, galleries and recreational centers, making the area a hub for arts, culture, food and recreation.

Tam-awan’s success story hinged on its commitment to promoting local products, the village began producing handcrafted items, crafted by local artists and artisans, serving as souvenirs for visitors and a testament to the artistic prowess of the community, providing livelihood for workers and
consigners.

Chit Asignacion relates, long before the age of social media, Tamawan Village had already made a name on the global stage, landing on the directory of the Lonely Planet guidebook in Europe, signaling travelers from all corners of the globe started to flock to Baguio to experience the cultural immersion Tam-awan village offered.

Asignacion recounted how the reputation of TamAwan Village escalated, catching the attention of major airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia which was featured in inflight
magazines, attracting even more visitors. The small project of a group of friends was slowly becoming popular, something that was not at all planned. One cannot discuss Tamawan’s journey without acknowledging the unwavering support of the National Commission for Culture and the
Arts (NCCA) which since 1998, has been a vital partner in the mission to promote and preserve Filipino culture and arts.

Over the last 25 years, the NCCA has provided invaluable support, allowing Tam-awan to conduct a wide range of programs on visual arts, music, dance, fiber arts with its support which has inspired a
multitude of artists, spurring cultural exchange and creating an environment where tradition and innovation coexist.

The partnership between Tam-awan Village and the NCCA is a testament to the power of collaboration in safeguarding cultural heritage, showcasing a commitment to culture and the arts. Celebrating 25 Years of Cultural Enrichment As Chanum Foundation marks its 25th anniversary, Tamawan Village is equally proud to celebrate alongside the 13th Tam-Awan International Arts
Festival, which takes place from October 4 to 8, 2023.

This year’s theme, “Ajowanan Kaugadian,” meaning “25 years of Nurturing Culture and Arts,” encapsulates the essence of the Tam – Awan journey. The festival promises to be a vibrant and immersive experience, bringing together artists, cultural bearers and visitors from around the world. It will be a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future
of cultural preservation and artistic exploration.

Tam-awan Village and Chanum Foundation Incorporated are dedicated to continuing the mission of nurturing culture and arts not only in Baguio City but all over the world. Gratitude goes out to the NCCA, artists and artisans, the local community, and our friends, visitors and benefactors. We invite you to join us in celebrating 25 years of nurturing culture and arts, and to look forward to a future which continues to preserve, respect and promote heritage and tradition. Ajowanan Kaugadian!