In Tokko - Keeper of the Night, Michael Albano brings to life an everyday but iconic apparition in Batang Pinangga: the gecko. This wall-painting, found in the children's home playground, is a tribute to the small but unmistakable inhabitants of the grounds. The geckos - lovingly called Tokko by the children and residents, after the distinctive sound they make - are everywhere. They skitter over the walls, hide in shady corners and in the evening let out their calls like a familiar melody of the house.
Michael has captured the Tokko with an eye for detail, with its rough skin, bright eyes and muscular legs making it stick firmly to the wall. The warm, tropical colours reflect the vibrant energy of Batang Pinangga and the playfulness of the children who play in the playground every day. The presence of the Tokko in the painting highlights the deep connection between humans and nature at the site.
For the children, the Tokko is not just an animal, but a familiar figure in their daily lives. Sometimes a playful creature to watch, sometimes a silent observer of their adventures. With this artwork, the Tokko becomes an enduring symbol of the children's home - a protector, a witness and a piece of their home.
Michael Albano: An Artist with an Extraordinary Journey
Michael Albano is a talented painter and artist with an inspiring life story. As a young child, Michael ended up living on the streets of the Philippines, a harsh and uncertain environment where he was unable to simply be a child...
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