Description:
Immersing in Mud and Faith
Deep in the heart of Bibiclat, Nueva Ecija, lies a unique and captivating religious tradition: the “Taong Putik” festival. This mud-soaked celebration, steeped in history and unwavering faith, dates back to World War II, when a sudden downpour miraculously saved villagers from the clutches of the Japanese Imperial Army.
Documenting this immersive ritual demanded not just technical expertise, but a deep understanding of its cultural significance. Patience and discipline became my guiding principles as I waited for the break of dawn, ready to capture the transformative moment when participants, cloaked in mud, emerge from the rice paddies, their faces etched with devotion and gratitude.
The resulting images are nothing short of surreal. Bodies painted in earthy hues, blending seamlessly with the landscape, create a mesmerizing tapestry of faith and nature’s embrace. Beyond the visual spectacle, however, lies the true essence of “Taong Putik”: the warmth and welcoming spirit of the villagers, who readily shared their stories and traditions, making me feel not just an observer, but a participant in their sacred ritual.
This project wasn’t just about capturing stunning visuals; it was about journeying into a community’s soul, experiencing their faith firsthand, and translating that experience into a powerful visual narrative. “Taong Putik” stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition, the resilience of the human spirit, and the profound connection between faith and the natural world.
Client:
Ruptly GmbH, DE
Project Duration:
1 Day
Origin:
Nueva Ecija, June, 2019
Oliver Cruz 