Parol Lantern Workshop
A star-shaped beacon of light and hope, the Parol lantern leads traditional Filipino processions during the festive rich months of the holiday season. They are hung in windows and doorways in homes across the world to symbolize the triumphal nature of light during the season’s longest nights. In this workshop, families of the west end crafted a Filipino lantern constructed from bamboo and decorated with fine handmade papers sourced from a local business that reflect the flora of the region as well as colours inspired by spring. Selecting a variety of textures allowed each parol to have its own patchwork quilt quality, which reflects the multiculturalism of our neighbourhood.
In this Workshop, I introduce the origins and significance of Parol. As I lead the participants in the first part of making their Parol, constructing the star-shaped bamboo frame from bamboo stakes, I share stories of my early memories creating parol with my family and invite the participants to share their memories of making at an early age.
One of the challenges of making the workshop inclusive to families with small children is taking steps to prepare materials ahead of time. This included preparing samples of the project in various stages of the creative process to give families a visual guide. Utilizing templates to precut paper helped to move the project along, and planning ahead allowed the project to be inclusive to families with small children. Having 3 families participate allowed me to spend focused time helping individuals.
Finally, a light is installed, and we take turns lighting up our Parol to reveal the beautiful textures.
I encourage families to engage with one another and to remember it’s not about perfection, it’s about connection.
About the instructor – Diane Espiritu
As an artist and designer, I work in multiple materials to explore concepts that resonate with me as a mother, maker, and community member. I find strength in collaboration and engaging in the community to form meaningful connections. I love to work with my hands and encourage others to find a place of peace, mindfulness and delight in craft. Leading workshops allows me to share my knowledge and cultural experiences. My hope is that you learn and engage with the creative processes while connecting with others in a safe and welcoming space.
Expected Outcomes: Learning to do a traditional Filipino Cultural Craft, Participating in the creative process, and gaining a new skill. A sense of pride in making a Parol and the ability to take it home to bring light into their home as a beacon of Peace.
I am very grateful to the Small Neighbourhood Grants Program for making it possible to share this craft that reflects the strength, resourcefulness, and hope of the Filipino culture in celebration of the upcoming Asian Heritage Month.
Sincerely,
Diane
