PonyTale

Flat Floral

When I borrowed some bright, whimsical papier-mâché ponies from Takatak Project for a fashion shoot (see the editorial in Style Weekend today!), I was inundated with questions about what they were and where they were available. So I thought I’d share the story behind Takatak Project here! 

The word “taka” means “to mold from,” and the word used to describe the process eventually became synonymous with its product, most commonly in the shape of a horse. Once a thriving industry in Paete, Laguna, the taka numbers are now dwindling, and so the indie group known as Takatak Project hopes to revive this dying craft. 

Mary Velmonte, an art director and craft enthusiast who spearheaded the Takatak Project, shares: “I grew up with takas. They’re like crayons to me. [The children’s show] Batibot showed my generation the art of making takas, and I was fascinated by that video. Recently, while I was touring Paete, I could hardly find them. I noticed the craftsmen making the takas were old already. I felt sad; I wanted to keep the craft alive so that many other generations can enjoy it as much as I did when I was young.” 

Velmonte shared her pipe dream with three creative buddies, and the plan began to take shape. “Takatak Project started two years ago as an ‘usapang lasing’ [drunken talk] project that Claude Rodrigo Canete, Dexter Canete, Missy Galang, and I enthusiastically wanted to pursue, with matching toast!” Today, Takatak Project works with taka artisans in Paete to help generate business for the traditional craftsmen, while ambitiously aiming to keep the art culturally relevant to younger generations. By putting a modern spin to this traditional craft, Takatak Project has turned takas into hip conversation pieces, coveted decor for children’s rooms, and even quirky gift ideas. Though still a fledgling venture, Mary says, “I dream to one day make it into a functional and sustainable business and cultural format that can easily be applied to any traditional craft.”

For the Spring 2013 collection, the takas come in small, medium, and large sizes, and are painted in pretty pastels, playful prints, and dreamy florals (prices available upon request). Aren’t they adorable? (Confession: the “dotty” design never left my house after the shoot!). The Takatak Project is a regular at the 10A Alabama Crafts Fair and Balik Bukid Fair, and most of their Spring collection will be available online at mymarquee.ph. For more information, find Takatak Project on Facebook or contact tel (2) 9267883 or (+63999) 366-6786.

Looking for something in particular? Let Pierra be your virtual shopper! Visit her virtual styling and shopping site www.miss-match.com.ph [1] or blog www.thehappylab.com.ph.  [2]