One of the most talked-about pieces of art in 5 ELK HQ is a painting by Filipino artist Ruel Rosello depicting the local tradition of bayanihan.
The scene shows a community carrying a family’s home to a new location. Historically, when a house needed to be moved because of flooding, changing circumstances or land ownership, neighbours would come together to help. Some provided strength. Others prepared food. Children played among the crowd. What could have been a difficult day became a community effort.
Celebrating Culture and Community
While the practice itself is all but gone today, the spirit behind it remains deeply embedded in Filipino culture.
In times of crisis, natural disaster or hardship, Filipinos are known for rallying around one another. Whether supporting neighbours after a typhoon or helping a family through a difficult time, there is a deeply held belief that challenges are easier to overcome when people work together.
That spirit is one of the reasons this painting resonates so strongly with our team.
At 5 ELK, we design our offices to reflect the people and communities around them.
Our team members bring their personalities, experiences and culture to work every day. The artwork displayed throughout our offices reflects that.
As Danielle Cornelissen explains:
“Our people don’t leave their culture, values and identity at the office door. They bring them with them every day, and our business is stronger because of it. The spirit of bayanihan is woven into Filipino culture, and it’s something we see reflected in the way our team supports one another.”
A Daily Reminder
Today, the painting serves as a striking centrepiece and conversation starter for visitors to our HQ.
More importantly, it reminds us of something we see every day within our tribe. Team members helping colleagues. People stepping up when support is needed. Individuals contributing to something bigger than themselves.
The tradition of carrying houses may belong to another era, but the spirit of bayanihan is very much alive.
It lives on in communities, workplaces and the people who choose to support one another when it matters most.
Check out the full interview here.
