Artist Bio

Blessyl Buan is a multidisciplinary artist whose work as a contemporary dancer, choreographer, and visual artist is deeply rooted in her rich academic background and cultural heritage. With degrees in Kinesiology (2001) and Chiropractic (2005), she brings a profound understanding of the human body to her artistic practice. This foundation, coupled with over two decades of professional dance experience and clinical work in dance medicine, allows her to create art that is both physically and emotionally resonant.

Blessyl’s creative process is heavily influenced by Philippine Indigenous traditions and the personal journey of reclaiming agency and healing from the multigenerational impacts of colonization and cultural erasure. Her interest in neo-ethnic dance was ignited after witnessing Agnes Locsin's choreography in "Igorota" (Ballet Philippines, 2000) and deepened during her time with Hataw Performing Arts (2014-2016). Through her work, she seeks to validate the Philippine diaspora as authentic caretakers of culture, crafting interdisciplinary works that resonate with rhythm, movement, and land-based spirituality.

Inspired by the Philippine Indigenous concept of 'Kapwa'—which emphasizes the interconnectedness of people, nature, and the cosmos—Blessyl’s choreography often incorporates Baybayin, an ancient Filipino script, to create dance movements that embody identity and cultural reclamation. She also draws on the imagery of Bayanihan, the Filipino tradition of collective care, symbolized by moving a house on one’s shoulders, to explore themes of hope and resilience.

Beyond the traditional, Blessyl is deeply interested in dance, visual arts and jewelry design as a form of activism, challenging conventional notions. She views her multiple art expressions as a means of culture-bearing through the lens of the diaspora, using it as a tool to engage with and express cultural identity in diverse forms. Her work extends into performance art, interactive installations, short films, and other mediums, pushing the boundaries of art and expanding its role as a powerful vehicle for cultural expression and social change.

Her artistic practice is a vibrant celebration of cultural identity, joy, and interconnectedness, weaving together the disrupted lineages of her heritage into a powerful, contemporary expression.

She is proud to witness fellow Filipina/o/x and BIPOC artists wearing buankissed to adorn their inherent magic.

This is #buankissedmagic.