At 106 years old, Apo Whang-Od is not just a living legend and a cultural icon; she is also a symbol of resilience, strength, and perseverance. Her life story is one of hardship, determination, and artistic passion.
Apo Whang-Od was born in 1917 in Buscalan, a small village in the Kalinga province of the Philippines. She grew up in a traditional Kalinga community, where tattooing was not only an art form but also a rite of passage and a way of expressing one’s identity and status.
As a young girl, Apo Whang-Od learned the art of hand-tapped tattooing from her mother and grandmother, who were both respected tattoo artists in the village. She started practicing on herself and her siblings, perfecting her skills and developing her own unique style.
However, life was not easy for Apo Whang-Od and her community. They faced discrimination and oppression from the colonial government and were forced to flee to the mountains to avoid persecution. Despite the challenges, Apo Whang-Od continued to hone her craft, creating intricate and meaningful tattoos that became increasingly popular among the Kalinga people.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that Apo Whang-Od’s artistry gained national and international recognition. Her work was featured in art exhibitions and cultural events, and she became a sought-after tattoo artist for people who wanted to experience the beauty and spirituality of Kalinga tattoos.
Today, Apo Whang-Od is the last surviving traditional Kalinga tattoo artist, carrying on a legacy that has been passed down through generations of Kalinga women. Her life story and her artistry have inspired many, and her dedication to preserving Kalinga culture and traditions has made her a beloved figure in the Philippines and beyond.
Her recent feature in Vogue magazine has brought even more attention to her remarkable talent and legacy, and has highlighted the importance of preserving traditional art forms and supporting indigenous communities. Apo Whang-Od’s story is a testament to the power of art, culture, and resilience, and a reminder of the rich history and heritage of the Kalinga people.
