PEARLS: Ikit 1

9 limited edition prints available

2021

Photograph

2.9 x 2 ft

Unframed

A collaboration between artist Archie Geotina, surfers Ikit and Aping Agudo and photographer Bren Lopez, this powerful series invites viewers to immerse themselves in the strength, beauty and fierceness of Filipina women in oneness with Mother Ocean.
In ancient verdic texts, the pearl is born of the earth’s waters and the heavens powers, fertilized by a flash of lightning. The pearl is considered to be the daughter of the moon. In western cultures, the pearl has an astrological association with the planet Venus. Like pearls, the goddess of love came from the sea. Some stories say white pearls are tears shed by the gods; another legend says the tears Eve cried when she was banished from Eden turned to pearls. Throughout centuries, pearls have been associated with femininity, purity, wisdom, patience, peace.

Philippine surfers Ikit and Aping Agudo, like pearls, embody this connection to the spiritual realm. They are a FORCE in the water, gems of the sea, excelling beyond gender limitations and capabilities with grace and passion.
In the PEARLS series, Ikit and Aping surf in traditional Filipiniana clothing, making a powerful statement in breaking the mold and societal and gender expectations on how Filipina women should behave or present themselves.

Throughout the history of the Philippines, women in formal Filipiniana wear were considered meek, shy and weak. Here, the muses are captured in their element in all their glory, PEARLS truly captures the essence of the strength and resilience of Filipina women in this country.

EXPLORE MORE ARCHIE GEOTINA