Baguio Apo Wang Od, also known as Maria Oggay, is the last traditional Kalinga tattoo artist in the Philippines. She is a living legend and an icon in the world of tattooing.
Who is Apo Wang Od?
Apo Wang Od is a 102-year-old tattoo artist from Buscalan, Kalinga Province. She started practicing the traditional art of tattooing at the age of 15, and has been doing it for more than 87 years.
The Art of Kalinga Tattooing
Kalinga tattooing is a traditional art form that has been practiced by the Kalinga people for thousands of years. It is a ritualistic process that involves using thorns, bamboo sticks, and charcoal to create intricate designs on the skin.
The tattoos are not just for aesthetic purposes, but also have cultural and spiritual significance. They serve as a symbol of bravery, strength, and identity.
Preserving the Tradition
Apo Wang Od is one of the few remaining traditional Kalinga tattoo artists who still practices this art form. She has dedicated her life to preserving the tradition and passing it on to the next generation.
She has trained her grandniece, Grace Palicas, and other young women in her village on the art of Kalinga tattooing. She believes that it is important to keep the tradition alive and to pass on the knowledge to the younger generation.
Recognition and Fame
Apo Wang Od gained international recognition and fame when Whang-od Oggay, a documentary film about her life, was released in 2016. The film shed light on the traditional art of Kalinga tattooing and brought attention to Apo Wang Od's important role in preserving the tradition.
Since then, Apo Wang Od has become a cultural icon and has received numerous awards and recognition for her contribution to the preservation of Kalinga culture.
Visiting Apo Wang Od
Many people visit Buscalan village to get a tattoo from Apo Wang Od and to experience the Kalinga culture. However, due to her age and health, Apo Wang Od has limited the number of tattoos she does per day.
Visitors are advised to respect the culture and traditions of the Kalinga people and to follow the guidelines set by the community.
Conclusion
Apo Wang Od is a living legend and an icon in the world of tattooing. She has dedicated her life to preserving the tradition of Kalinga tattooing and passing it on to the next generation. Her contribution to the preservation of Kalinga culture has gained her international recognition and fame.
If you are planning to visit Buscalan village, make sure to follow the guidelines set by the community and to respect the culture and traditions of the Kalinga people.