Cian Dayrit's Counter-Cartography Challenges Philippine Land Injustice Through Textile Maps and Activism

Born in 1989 in Manila, Cian Dayrit is an artist who engages with social issues through multimedia installations and textile maps that confront systemic inequalities in Philippine society. He collaborates with local craftsmen and communities to bring to light marginalized stories, particularly through his 'counter-cartography' textiles. His activism began at the University of the Philippines, where he protested against tuition increases. In 2017, he helped establish SAKA to advocate for agrarian reform and initiated the 'We Are Randy Echanis' campaign in August 2021 to commemorate activist Randall Echanis, who was murdered on 10 August 2020. Notable works include 'Valley of Dispossession' (2021) and 'Busis Iba’t Ha Kanayunan' (2018). Currently, he is pursuing a master's degree in geography at the University of the Philippines and will take part in the 23rd Biennale of Sydney from 12 March to 13 June 2022.