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Jose Pahilga's craft
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The culture of a country speaks so much about its people. Songs, artworks, poetry, stories and even legends are developed and nurtured, and then becomes our timeless and priceless inheritance. A glance at our history reveals the colorful chapters under many different influences.
Our crafts—candles, bags, handmade papers and woodworks, have made our country known because of their ingenuity. The uniqueness of sculpture in wood stems from decorative bas-relief on small objects to life-size figures in round, furniture, and architectural decorations. The woods used by the creator vary greatly in hardness and grain. The most commonly employed woods include boxwood, pine, pear, walnut, willow, oak, and ebony and more.
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The artist can make his own imitation of totem poles of Northwest Coast of America, Sheik-el-Beled of Egypt among others. With simple tools like gouges, chisels, wooden mallets, and pointed instruments, and skilled hands, especially, are what it takes to make a smooth finish. It is an expertise that not every person possesses. Some earn the public's respect and yet it is no secret that something like that is not knowledge or skill learned overnight. It usually takes a lot of blood and sweat to be able to create a work of art and achieve fulfillment of being called an artist.
One man who patiently honed his skill in carving is Mr. Jose Pahilga. Inspired by an uncle who used to make ‘batil' (wooden boat), he too started making his own miniature boats. His designs were then for decorative purposes. Until in 1983, a naval architect by the name of Engr. Carl Sustituido taught him the law of buoyancy. From then on, his creations were not only used for decorations but for something bigger, making them treasures of the sea.
More than a hobby
His dedication for his craft sustained him. He was a seafarer for 31 years and after his retirement, tragedy hit his family. Jose painfully recalls, “I was contemplating suicide early last year because of the consecutive deaths of my four children. Two were College graduates and the other two were in High School. All of them were diagnosed with cancer…but then, I remembered I had to finish a ship I was making.”
Practice makes perfect, so the old saying goes. Jose Pahilga's works have been greatly improved through years and years of practice and dedication. His 20 years of creating historical model galleons like the ‘trirés' look as sophisticated as the real ones. The ‘trirés' is an Athenian roaring ship (used in the movie ‘Troy'). “I love making these boats, it takes away stress. And it makes the mind work, like solving puzzles.”
Wood carving like any art form takes time to produce. An artist's intricate design also depends on his current state of mind. With Pahilga's galleons, it takes him 2-3 months of work depending on the model. “It would always depend on my mood because I want my work to be at least 100%. Although it's a bit impossible at times, 90-98% would be fine.” Other than dedication, practice and passion, he shares his secrets to all who like him are also into carving miniature boats. “Always remember that it's not only for yourself but for the people you love. Give it back for the greater glory of God, and only to Him.” He also thanked the people who continuously inspire him. “My works are a tribute to my loving family. It's for my six children (4 deceased), my wife Josephine, my friends, my mentors and all who believe and continue supporting me in my art.”
Pahilga's works were first exhibited during the Ilonggoanay Trade Fair last September 8-11. His clients have also made it an heirloom of their family, gift to friends and souvenirs. You can visit him at his place at Zone 8 Calumpang, Iloilo. Call or text at 09217223846 and 3365990.
