by Kenneth Irving Ong
Rachy Cuna’s floral fantasies
WITH so few culturally relevant events happening in Durianburg, I was ecstatic to know that the country’s solely recognized floral architect, Rachy Cuna, will be in town to showcase his amazing artistic installations in an exhibit entitled Habi Natin: A Celebration ofMindanao’s Woven Heritage last May 28. The exhibit is a part of the country’s celebration of the Heritage Month in Davao City.
The lobby of the Marco Polo was bedecked in surreal other-worldly yet strangely familiar floral arrangements that are the product of Rachy’s fertile dreaming. Rachy’s works incorporated Mindanao’s indigenous fabrics, crafts and materials such as wood, husks, rattan, seagrass, coconut and other natural materials and magically transforms them them into beautiful flowers of different colors and forms. One can say Rachy is a master of his craft, creating fabulous installations plucked from the garden of his imagination.
Many thanks to Ms. Mary Ann “Baby” Montemayor for inviting me to be a witness to this wonderful, culturally enriching event.
