Tatak is an artist ‘zine interpreting a visual language of Filipino cultural identity. Colonialization and cultural mixing have made contemporary Filipino identity different today than its past. This project brings indigenous symbols into my art and design in order to inspire young Filipino creatives to explore their roots too.

Referencing the geometric and abstract forms found in Filipino tribal tattoos and native symbols, I drew a series of black-and-white sketches on 8.5” x 11” paper using pencil and sharpie. Then I transcribed these drawings into collages, patterns, and other physical and digital art forms, each represented in a page or spread in the`zine. In my final year of graphic design studies, I applied skills learned about digital and photo imaging, illustration, layout and design, drawing and painting together in order to create this publication. It expresses new Filipino ideas in a fresh artistic context.