An encounter with 'Diwata' sculptor Sandra Torrijos

A "diwata" (forest nymph) once again graced the recent Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). In Philippine folk literature and mythology, a diwata personifies a woman of goodwill who fights injustice, defends the powerless, and punishes the wicked. In the MMFF, a "diwata trophy" is given to the Most Gender-Sensitive Film among all the entries in the annual film festival. Multi-medium and feminist artist Sandra Torrijos crafted the diwata trophy. She has been doing this for eight years since the award was first bestowed in 2002. Each year, Sandra conjures a symbol that represents a gender-fair vision for the movie industry and the viewing public. The design of the trophy “symbolizes the triumph of both Filipino men and women in promoting gender sensitivity in cinema," As in most of her work, a strong message is embodied in the image she creates. The diwata trophy, for instance, has the arms of both man and woman symbolizing gender equality. Sandra explained the other features of the trophy. “The crown on the head painted in gold represents heightened gender awareness while the colors red and blue on the faces represent the colors of our national flag symbolizing national unity in the resolution of gender issues," Sandra says. "The film strip held by the woman begins with the woman being alone and sad then on to discovery, celebration and equal partnership," she adds. In the film industry, gender-equality translates to movies that are free from sexist jokes or stereotype portrayals of men and women. “Art for art’s sake" and “entertainment value" should also not be interpreted as a license to degrade anyone on account of their gender. Sandra's musings As a gifted multimedia artist, Sandra’s musings and introspections permeate in the movie industry and beyond. Sandra’s works delve on women’s issues and other concerns in Philippine society where violence against women and children persist. Many women are marginalized, exploited, and subordinated. According to the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW), 9,585 violence against women (VAW) cases were reported to the police in 2009. The figure is 37.4 percent higher than the number of reported cases in 2008. Physical violence and/or wife battering are the most reported cases of violence across a 12-year period from 1997 to 2009. These cases represent 45.5 percent of all VAW cases. It is estimated that the reported figures are usually just the tip of the iceberg because many cases are left unreported. Sandra’s works carry the statement that all is not lost in the battle for gender-equality and women empowerment in Philippine society. Her works manifest the hope for justice for all the victims of VAW. Visual artist A fine arts alumnus of the University of the Philippines, majoring in visual communications, Sandra is well aware of the remarkable ways that visual arts influences the norms of society. A teacher of fine arts at Kalayaan College for many years, Sandra has also mounted solo exhibits and participated in group exhibitions that tackle gender issues and promote gender fairness. Some of the exhibits she has participated in are:

the Divine Fusions at the Conspiracy;

Illuminations at the Ayala Museum;

Ang Babae and Transmissions at the Cultural Center of the Philippines;

12 Filipina Artists Speak at the Heritage Gallery;

Who Owns Women’s Bodies? A Travelling Exhibition;

Pintadas in Germany;

Six Filipino Artists in Athens;

Manila-Pisa Art Exchange in Italy, and

the Fellows Exhibition in Vermont to name some of her notable works. Multi-awarded artist For her creativeness and her advocacy for gender equality, Sandra has received recognition and awards from various institutions. Her awards include:

the International Grand Prize of the Stop Rape Art Contest of the Equality Now in New York;

the 13 Artists Awards at the CCP, and

the Osaka Triennale Painting Competition. Affirming humanity's goodness Sandra wants her works to affirm the goodness of humanity. She wants to express how women can evolve from a life shrouded in angst and anxiety to one of liberty and vibrancy. “My art is a travel through life coming from the dark and emerging into the light that is evident in my application of forms and colors", she enthuses. Whether it is a painting, sculpture, or mosaic artwork, each piece is always a work of passion, Sandra says. Each piece promotes inner piece, harmony, and appreciation of blessings while remaining keenly aware of the realities of everyday life, Sandra explains. Some of the themes she usually uses are fire, water, gardens, trees, boats, and other symbols drawn from nature. As an artist, Sandra allows herself the freedom to explore different media to express her ideas. In the last two years, she created outdoor sculptures using the mosaic technique. One artwork entitled "Dakila" is an eye-catching piece displayed at the Center for Women’s Studies in UP Diliman, Quezon City. Another mosaic piece entitled "Ani" graces the Alumni Plaza in UP Los Baños. Fair society People in general long for a society where citizens can claim their basic human rights, realize their true potentials, and be the best that they can be regardless of their gender. One's gender should not be a stumbling block to achieving dreams and aspirations. Sandra’s works remind us of the urgency to address gender-based discrimination, violence, and abuse. Sandra’s creations remind us not to be indifferent to the harsh realities around us because who knows, a "diwata" may be watching. – VVP, GMANews.TV