BAGUIO CITY -- “Artists can educate, and educators can do art.”

Young artist Tor Sagud expressed this Thursday in an ABS-CBN News exclusive interview at the Bookends Bookstore in Baguio City, when asked why he thought of developing the illustrated educational book “Igorotak,” which aims to reintroduce to the public the fundamentals of the culture of the Igorots in the Cordillera Administrative Region.

“Igorotak,” using Sagud’s impeccable comic-style artworks, depicts the basic elements of the Igorot culture and heritage – rituals, dances, clothing, food, beliefs and practices, tools, weapons, and mythology, among others.

“I was told many times that I could not marry my two passions – education and the arts,” explained the 28-year-old artist. “But, I really believe that I am at my best when I am teaching with my art.”

This belief led Sagud to develop this ambitious, yet noble idea of writing and illustrating “Igorotak,” which will be released on September 20 at select outlets in the region.

“I have always had this fear that we are already forgetting our culture. When I talk to the younger people, I am saddened na hindi nila alam 'yung mga mythologies natin,” he admitted. “So, I really want to do my part using my art to educate not just the young, but also to remind the older ones.”

Sagud, a BS Secondary Education graduate from the University of Cordilleras, is currently a Visual Arts professor at the Baguio campus of Philippine Women’s University.

The young artist recounts that as early as 15 years old, he already knew that he had a knack for both teaching and the arts.

“Noon, ‘pag wala 'yung teacher namin, ako na 'yung nagtuturo ng TLE (Technical and Livelihood Education),” added the self-taught artist, who was initially exposed to drawing by his brother Angelo. “Here in Baguio, there is no Fine Arts school, so I decided to pursue my other love – teaching.”

According to Sagud, being an educator requires him to be abreast with what is happening in the world around him.

“Watching the news, I am alarmed with issues on deforestation, unemployment, and the seemingly dying love for our culture,” shared Sagud. “So, I really wanted to do something to help.”

He hopes that “Igorotak” will sell a million units to help in the reforestation, unemployment problems not just in the region, but in the entire country as well.

“That is aside from breathing new life to our culture here in the Cordillera region,” he added. “I hope this could also blaze the trail for artists from all other regions to do the same.”

Sagud believes that an illustrated guide format is the best way to reach the young, as well as tourists, because this has been proven effective in Finland, where education is presented in an engaging, fun manner.

Aside from “Igorotak,” Sagud is also busy with the GRIPO Comic Group, where he is co-chairman alongside Gerald “Majic” Asbucan. GRIPO produced the successful “Gayang,” a comic book featuring Igorot myths and legends.

“A lot of work still has to be done,” closed Sagud. “But I am eternally grateful to everyone who has been helping us in this worthwhile endeavor.”

“Igorotak” will be launched on September 20 at the Bookends Bookshop, Baguio City.