I’ve spoken at universities and organizations including Stanford, Berkeley, SF State, Davis, Asian Art Museum, University of the Philippines, Anthropology Museum of Madrid, Tokyo University and the San Francisco Philippine Consulate. Below are some of my current offerings. Reach out if interested in custom talks to fit your organization's needs.
pre-Philippine Scripts in the Diaspora
This flagship 60 minute presentation starts off with storytelling about my personal story then leads breaking down writing systems, identity, value history, economics, social impacts and cultural context.
Introduction to pre-Philippine scripts
Hands-on activity covers history, basic characters, stroke technique, translation methods and system breakdown. Attendees will learn how to write their names.
Introduction to pre-Philippine tattoos
What can a tattoo tell us about who we were and who we are becoming? In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore Batok, the traditional hand-tap tattooing practice of the Philippines, as a gateway into pre-colonial history, cultural identity, and living resistance. More than just body art, Batok holds deep meanings tied to language, ceremony, and ancestral values. We’ll trace the roots of this sacred tradition through the lens of cultural practitioners, including the legacy of Apo Whang-Od, whose visibility has ignited both global admiration and important conversations around cultural tourism, authenticity, and indigenous sovereignty. The workshop will also explore how Batok intersects with today’s socio-economic and political issues from identity and representation to community survival in the face of displacement and modernization. Learn the difference between ritual and modern western tattoos. to creating a practice in the diaspora. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the concept of “Pre-Filipino” history, the role of values and action in cultural preservation, and why Batok is more than a tattoo, it’s a living movement for reclaiming our stories.
A.I. Nako
A.I. Nako explores the ways Artificial Intelligence technology can be incorporated into creative and business workflows with a focus on the unique perspectives of Fil-Am artists and cultural practitioners. We will discuss the impact of AI on representation, ethics, and displacement while emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural values. Through real-time live demos of AI tools, I will showcase the practical applications of AI in organizing creativity and efficiency. The goal of this workshop is to inform and provide a perspective from an artist, rather than a tech company.
Culture x Career
How cultural discovery can lead to a successful career. Attendees will learn how cultural practice intersects with career development.
Videos
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