Buhok at Anting Anting

Cynthia Alberto's My Anting Anting (2023) series is an adaptation and continuation of Buhok at Anting Anting, which she presented during MAD Museum's 2018 artist fellowship program. Inspired by the use of human hair in artworks and artifacts across cultures worldwide, Alberto's weavings serve a dual purpose as altarpieces. Throughout history, various cultures have associated hair with a wide range of magical and metaphysical qualities, such as strength, beauty, femininity, and purity. In Alberto's project, the hair pays homage to the pre-colonial Filipino concept of "anting-anting," involving the purification of amulets or talismans used in numerous ceremonial contexts.

While Bukok at Anting Anting (2018) focused outward, relying on donated hair from Alberto's community members for the purpose of collective healing, My Anting Anting (2023) shifts its focus inward. It explores the metaphysical and spiritual journey within our internal worlds when faced with life's trials. In May 2023, Alberto was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and created this body of work while undergoing monthly chemotherapy treatments. Using the hair cut before chemo treatment, she wove herself into each loom, solidifying the mysticism and faith required for healing. Each loom represents a unique expression of survival and hope, an offering for more life.

Buhok at Anting Anting (2025) is a continuation of my series, this time focusing on my personal healing with my cancer. My journey of hope and renewal continues and by showing my recent ceramic artworks, every single piece of the ceramic is my woven story of my life and the people that I encounter everyday.

Every single with a breath is precious and can not be taken for granted.