TOPIC: SYMMETRY ART (Okir/Ukkil)

Slide 1:
“A DEEP DIVE INTO OKIR/UKKIL”

Context:
Introduction to Symmetry Art:
Symmetry - is a fundamental aspect of art and design. It's a principle that guides the balance
and harmony of a composition. Symmetry can be found everywhere in nature and is often used
by artists to create a sense of order and beauty.
Symmetry Art - is a type of art that is balanced and proportionate on both sides. It's based on
the concept of symmetry, which is a fundamental aspect of aesthetics, design, and art.
Illustrations:

Slide 2:

Introduction to Okir/Ukkil:
•mapaimod muna kita san mga sample pictures or examples san okir arts, one sample picture
**transition** × details san pic/artwork na ifaflash.

SARIMANOK MOTIF

A mythical bird of the Maranao

people. It's often depicted as a
colorful bird holding a fish in its beak
or claws, symbolizing prosperity and
good fortune.

PAKO (FERN)

This motif is inspired by the fern plant

and is often used in the design of the
malong, a traditional tube skirt. It
symbolizes growth and the continuity
of life.
Slide 3:

NAGA (SERPENT)

The Naga motif is inspired by the

mythical sea serpent. It's often used in
architectural designs and represents
protection and strength.

GADUR

- a traditional Maranao brass

container, often showcases Okir
designs. The designs are usually
hammered into the metal, creating
beautiful, intricate patterns.

MALONG

a traditional garment widely used in

various communities in the southern
Philippines, including the Maranao
people. It's a tube-like skirt that can
be worn by both men and women,
and it's known for its versatility and
functionality. The Malong can be used
as a skirt, a dress, a blanket, a
bedsheet, or even a baby carrier,
among other uses.

Slide 4
Let’s define Okir – The Maranao Art. . .

• Okir art is a traditional art form of the Maranao people in the southern Philippines. The
term "Okir" refers to the intricate, geometric, and flowing designs that are often seen in
Maranao architecture, metalwork, wood carving, and weaving.
• The designs in Okir art are usually inspired by nature and can include representations of
leaves, vines, and the flow of water, among others. The art form is characterized by its
use of symmetry, balance, and repetition, creating visually pleasing patterns that are
both complex and harmonious.
• Okir art is deeply rooted in Maranao culture and carries significant meaning. It's not just
a form of decoration, but also a reflection of the Maranao people's worldview, their
deep connection with nature, and their artistic creativity.
Slide 5

VINTA BOAT
The Vinta, also known as lepa-lepa
or sakayan, is a traditional boat
found in the Sulu Archipelago and
Mindanao in the Philippines. It's
recognized by its vibrant, colorful
sail and its unique design.

KULINTANG
is a traditional musical instrument
from the southern Philippines,
particularly in the regions of
Mindanao, Sulu Archipelago, and
Palawan. It's a type of gong chime,
made up of a row of small,
horizontally laid gongs that are
individually tuned and struck with
mallets.

Kris/Kalis
- is a traditional weapon of the Tausug
people in the Sulu Archipelago of the
Philippines. It's a double-edged sword
with a distinctive wavy blade,
symbolizing a snake in motion.

BAHAY KUBO OF TAUSUG

The Bahay Kubo, also known as the
Nipa Hut, is a traditional Filipino
house. In the Sulu Archipelago, the
Tausug people have their own
unique style of these houses, often
constructed with materials like
bamboo, wood, and nipa palm.
Slide 6
Let’s define Ukkil – The Tausug Art. . .
• Ukkil art is a traditional art form originating from the Sulu Archipelago in the
Philippines. It's characterized by its intricate, flowing designs that often take inspiration
from nature. These designs can include motifs of plants, animals, and geometric
patterns, which are all intricately intertwined in a visually pleasing manner.

• This art form is typically seen in various mediums such as wood carvings, metal works,
textiles, and even in architecture. Ukkil designs can be found on traditional houses,
furniture, weapons like the Kris, boats like the vinta, and musical instruments like the
kulintang.

• What makes Ukkil art truly special is its cultural significance. It's not just about creating
beautiful designs, but also about expressing the cultural identity, beliefs, and values of
the people of the Sulu Archipelago. The process of creating Ukkil art is a tradition that
has been passed down through generations, making it a vital part of their cultural
heritage.

Slide 7
“ Why are Okir and Ukkil considered symmetry arts, even though most of their artworks
encompass designs that are not proportionate on each side?”

Slide 8:

• They can still be considered as forms of symmetry art because symmetry in art isn't
always about perfect mirror images.

Symmetry in art can be divided into several types, including:

1. BILATERAL SYMMETRY (mirrored image) - While not as common, some Okir and
Ukkil designs do use bilateral symmetry, where one side is a mirror image of the
other. This is often seen in designs that depict animals or people.

2. ROTATIONAL SYMMETRY (designs rotate around a central point) - Some Okir and
Ukkil designs use rotational symmetry, where the design rotates around a central
point. This is often seen in circular designs, where the design elements radiate out
from the center.

3. TRANSLATIONAL SYMMETRY (designs repeat in a pattern) - This type of symmetry

involves repeating a design in a pattern. While the individual design elements may
not be symmetrical, the overall pattern creates a form of symmetry.

Okir and Ukkil artworks often use a form of symmetry known as "asymmetrical
balance" or "informal balance." (with the use of all the three types of symmetry
aforementioned). This means that while the designs on each side of the artwork aren't
identical, they still balance each other out in terms of visual weight and interest.
 Slide 9

SIGNIFICANCE OF OKIR TO MARANAO AS WELL AS UKKIL TO TAUSUG

• This traditional art form is deeply rooted in the Maranao’s history and reflects their
values, beliefs, and lifestyle.

5 Significance:

1. Preservation of Cultural Identity

- Okir is a unique art form that distinguishes the Maranao people as well as
Ukkil to Tausug people from other cultural groups. The specific patterns and
designs are a visual language that communicates their identity.

2. Develops connection to Nature

- The designs in Okir and Ukkil often depict elements from nature, such as
leaves, vines, and animals, symbolizing the Maranao's and Tausug’s deep
connection and respect for the natural world.
3. Artistic Expression
- Okir and Ukkil provides a medium for artistic expression. It's used to adorn
various objects, from architectural elements like houses and torogans to
everyday items like clothing and utensils, adding beauty and meaning to
them.

4. Preservation of Tradition
- The techniques and designs of Okir and Ukkil are passed down from
generation to generation, helping to preserve the Maranao's and Tausug’s
cultural heritage.
5. Symbols of Status and Wealth/Skill
- Historically, both Okir and Ukkil designs held significant societal connotations.
Okir patterns, with their complex and intricate nature, were symbols of
wealth and nobility, reflecting the social standing of their owners. Similarly,
Ukkil designs stood as markers of nobility, but they also highlighted the
craftsman's skill, with their complexity showcasing the artisan's proficiency.
Both art forms, therefore, served as indicators of the owner's societal status.

SLIDE 10

Key points:

• Both Okir and Ukkil are traditional art forms from the Philippines that feature intricate,
geometric, and flowing designs, but they come from different cultural groups.
• Okir is the term used by the Maranao people, who are from the southern part of the country.
Their designs often feature elements inspired by nature, such as leaves, vines, and the flow of
water.

• On the other hand, Ukkil is the term used by the Tausug people, who are also from the
southern Philippines but from different islands. Ukkil designs are often seen in traditional boat-
making, weaponry, and textiles.
 • While both art forms feature similar stylistic elements and both use symmetry, they each
have unique characteristics and cultural significance within their respective societies. So, while
they share similarities, Okir and Ukkil are distinct from each other.

• Symmetry in art doesn't always mean that the entire object or image is perfectly balanced in
all aspects. Instead, symmetry often refers to a balance or harmony in the design elements.
• Even if the designs in Okir and Ukkil art aren't always proportionate on each side, the overall
composition is balanced, which is why they can be considered forms of symmetry art.