Weaving Workshop at Harvard Peabody Museum Showcases PH Indigenous Textiles
CAMBRIDGE, MA, 22 February 2025 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with the Harvard Museums of Science & Culture, Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, and Filipino social enterprise Hibla Philippines, successfully conducted a basic weaving workshop at the Harvard Peabody Museum. The event was held in commemoration of National Arts Month and as part of the Consulate’s Philippine Fiber, Fabric, and Textile Promotion Program, which aims to preserve and promote indigenous Philippine weaving traditions while fostering cross-cultural dialogue on textile heritage and sustainable design.
The workshop consisted of two sessions, each attended by 30 participants, including students from design and materials science schools in the Greater Boston area. Participants from Harvard University, the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, and the School of Fashion Design took part in the hands-on session, which was facilitated by Hibla Philippines founder Romae Chanice “Nice” Marquez. During the workshop, Ms. Marquez introduced participants to the diverse indigenous textiles of the Philippines, highlighting the unique weaving traditions of different ethnolinguistic communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
In his opening remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile emphasized the importance of Philippine weaving as a cultural tradition and art form, stating, “Philippine weaving is more than just an art form—it is a living tradition that tells the stories of our people. By learning these techniques and understanding the cultural significance behind every thread, you are helping keep these traditions alive and relevant in today’s world.”
The program was introduced by Dr. Ingrid Ahlgren, Peabody Museum Curator for Oceanic Collections, who reaffirmed the museum’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange and supporting indigenous traditions.
The workshop built on the momentum of Post’s HABI: Discovering Possibilities for Philippine Fibers exhibit, held in November-December 2024 at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, which showcased the innovative applications of indigenous Philippine fibers such as abaca, piña, and banana. Participants expressed their enthusiasm for the experience, with one student sharing, “It was amazing to see how these traditional weaving techniques can be applied to contemporary design. I’m excited to explore this further in my own work.”
The success of the weaving workshop at the Harvard Peabody Museum highlights the growing appreciation for Philippine textiles and the importance of cross-cultural collaboration in preserving heritage arts. The Philippine Consulate General in New York remains committed to expanding its programs to promote Philippine textile traditions and deepen partnerships with academic and cultural institutions in the U.S. Northeast. END
