SF Museum to host ‘Farms to Tables: Filipino-Americans Then and Now’

Asian Art Museum. Photo taken from https://sfappeal.com

SAN FRANCISCO—With this year’s theme “Farms to Tables: Filipino-Americans Then and Now,” the Asian Art Museum will be hosting its annual festival celebrating Filipino-American history and culture on Sunday, Oct. 6, at 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin Street.

The theme represents the past, present and future of Filipino-Americans in California who shaped the farm-labor movement and influenced culinary traditions.

Local chefs, entrepreneurs, activists and other artists who promote healthy community-based living through art, culture and delicious food will be on hand to meet the public. This program is free as part of the Target First Free Sunday Program.

Program Highlights

Spiritual leaders in the Babaylan tradition will join Igorot-inspired dancers and musicians playing the gangsa (a metal and bamboo instrument), guiding the audience from the steps outside Samsung Hall into the heart of the building with the sounds and movements of the Philippines.

Opening remarks will be delivered by Assemblymember Rob Bonta, Philippine Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. and Asian Art museum director Jay Xu.

In this demo, artist Christine Balza will share her knowledge of the ancient Filipino script Baybayin, last actively used in the 1800s.

Famed chef Cocoy Ventura and other culinary leaders and activists will give instructions on healthy living and Filipino-American food.

Highlight is the video screenings of two documentaries “Rescue in the Philippines” and “An Open Door,” which trace the previously untold story of the Philippines’ part in helping about 1,200 Jews escape the Nazis and immigrate to the Philippines during World War II. Introduction will be made by community advocate Rudy Asercion; Q&A will follow.