This Children’s Museum in Ibaan Sparks Conversations About the Environment

I Am The Explorer, a permanent installation by Leeroy New, becomes a point of imagining Filipino space travel and worlds beyond for the Grade 1 students of Sto. Niño Elementary School.

Ibaan is home to the If Trees Could Talk International Art Biennale, a new space where children can tap into creativity and learn more about the world through art. This large-scale exhibit is hosted on a rolling plain filled with mango trees, the future site of the Tumba-Tumba Children’s Museum of Philippine Art.

The artwork Nanay Pawikan by Canadian artist Laurence Vallières sheds light on endangered species–vital contributors to the diversity of life on our planet.

If Trees Could Talk is an art biennale organized by The Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS). This initiative spotlights artworks that spark reflection and dialogue on environmental issues, particularly climate change.

Since its launch last February, If Trees Could Talk has warmly welcomed kids and families from around Batangas, Metro Manila, and beyond. Tours and art workshops brought more life to the open-air museum as new stories formed from the visitors' experiences.

This is Not a Mirage by Pam Yan-Santos and Jose John Santos III was met with different wishes for the environment and the future from the young students.

The fourth month of the biennale created more space for climate conversations. Last Saturday, June 15, the museum site was filled with kids, parents, teachers, and community members of Ibaan. The pupils of Sto. Niño Elementary School, Ibaan District actively participated in a tour, curiously exploring the details of artworks made from recycled materials and happily hugging the colorful bagras trees.

The sunny Saturday morning was capped off with a book-giving event sponsored by Karina Moreno, a long-time supporter of CANVAS’ efforts. Nearly 100 pupils who joined the event took home a copy of Ang Punla ng Aratiles, a book written by Eugene Evasco and illustrated by RV Basco. The story fittingly tackles the power of young people to take part in preserving and protecting nature.

We thank Karina Moreno and family, the students, teachers, and parents from Sto. Niño Elementary School, and the local officials of Ibaan for making this event a success!

Visitors can take a tour of If Trees Could Talk in Ibaan, Batangas until July 28, 2024. The site is open Thursdays to Sundays from 9 AM to 4 PM. Visit the biennale’s website for more information and updates on a few upcoming events. We’ve got more exciting things ahead, including a book by Vim Nadera and Elmer Borlongan! Stay in touch with us through our Facebook and Instagram pages.