Beyond Ordinary: Ili-Likha's Artistic Charm Right in the City

Right at the busy Assumption Road in Baguio City, a peculiar building stands that definitely catches the eyes of every passersby. This building is where Ili-likha Artists' Village and Watering Hole is nestled.

What makes this stands out from other buildings is its aesthetically unique blend of artistic expression and natural elements. Its whimsical treehouse design, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures and vibrant paintings creates a captivating ambiance. The village also serves as a lively community hub that caters a welcoming spot for local artists to showcase their work, collaborate, and interact with visitors. This makes Ili-likha Artists' Village and Watering Hole a distinct destination because of its unique combination of creative flare, natural beauty and community spirit.

The picture shows an idea of the distinctive architectural design of Ili-likha Artists' Village and Watering Hole. The unusual design of the roof that features a combination of traditional tiles and tarpaulin covered section, remains a prominent feature. The open and welcoming nature of the structure is showcased by the glass enclosure where the dining area is probably situated. The intricate wooden framework, reminiscent of a treehouse, further reinforces the building's integration with the surrounding natural environment.

At the rear of the building, you can see a big, twisted tree branch holding it up. The building looks like a tree with many branches and vines growing on it, making it feel like part of nature.

This is a close-up view of the back of the structure that shows a unique, rustic restaurant nestled amidst lush greenery. This further highlighting the structure that is seemingly built from reclaimed materials, features a circular window with colorful stained glass and a wooden roof adorned with intricate details. A bamboo wall adds a natural element to the exterior, while the interior boasts a colorful mosaic floor and rustic wooden tables and chairs. The restaurant's eclectic decor and inviting atmosphere create a charming and memorable dining experience.

These are some of the artworks found at Ili-likha Artists' Village and Watering Hole. A prominent wooden statue of Andres Bonifacio, who was a Filipino revolutionary and the founder of the Katipunan, a secret society that played a crucial role in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule, adorned with traditional attire and weaponry, stands at the center of the scene. Surrounding the warrior are smaller figures, decorative items, and a colorful mosaic backdrop. A table displays various informational materials, including brochures and pamphlets. The "KKK" sign, which means, Kataastaasan, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (Supreme and Venerable Society of the Sons of the People), was a revolutionary organization in the Philippines that fought against Spanish colonial rule. Founded in 1892, it aimed to unite Filipinos against Spanish oppression and establish a sovereign nation.

To sum it up, Ili-likha Artists' Village and Watering Hole is a unique cultural destination nestled in the scenic Baguio City, Philippines. This artistic building is renowned for its innovative use of recycled materials, transforming discarded items into stunning sculptures and installations. The village's lush surroundings, including a towering guava tree, provide a serene backdrop for the creative endeavors of its resident artists. Beyond its artistic attractions, Ili-likha also serves as a community hub, fostering collaboration and camaraderie among artists and visitors alike.
This uniquely designed building also housed small cafés, kiosks, or food stalls within the grounds. These may offer a variety of refreshments, snacks, or light meals, allowing you to enjoy a break and recharge amidst the artistic atmosphere. This is my humble entry to Point of Brain Community by @friendlymoose with the theme, "Buildings" for this week's contest. Have a nice weekend ahead!