Study No. 17, India Ink on Abaca Paper

“Tinta sa Abaka” is a collection of paintings by 24-year-old Filipina artist Jirah Millano. The artist debuted this style in October 2022, combining media that is long-lasting and reflects the Filipino heritage theme in her works. Jirah actively is an active member of local heritage-advocate groups such as Renacimiento Manila, Urban Sketchers Manila, Philippine Botanical Art Society, and Philippine Fauna Art Society. Through visual art, she seeks to help raise awareness on the status of local built and natural heritage.

This painting, "Study No. 17" is from a special collection of painting studies by Jirah Millano prior to the launch of "Tinta Sa Abaka". Her paint—India ink —is black, saturated, and permanent once dry. When applied on a wet surface, the ink blooms dramatically, producing interesting patterns. Painting using ink on abaca paper creates monochromatic pictures that are often described as dramatic, striking, nostalgic, and even ghostly.