Allow yourself the moment to admire Filipino art through these galleries
It goes without saying that the Philippines already has a beautiful history with the arts. In the most surface-level sense, we already get to flex about names like Juan Luna, Pacita Abad, and Benedicto Cabrera (BenCab), to name a few local giants.
Today, it is still without a doubt that the local art scene is very much alive and kicking. Artists continue to emerge, and new classics are about to be made or have already been made in the times.
Here are seven art galleries that showcase the beauty of contemporary Filipino art.
Art Underground Manila
Art Underground is a hidden gem in Mandaluyong’s Addition Hills. They advocate for innovation in terms of moving forward for Filipino art and seek to provide a home for both new and veteran artists locally.
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design
MCAD offers the best of Filipino contemporary art. A non-profit institution, the College of Saint Benilde-based museum also showcases the work of its students aside from carrying ones from local artists.
Vinyl on Vinyl
Vinyl on Vinyl draws its philosophy in creative experimentation, with its artists creating pieces out of unconventional means—including social media as performance art, soft sculptures, and massive origami structures. It is worth noting that in the first place, it was established to give a platform for artists with unconventional means aside from the base purpose of bringing them to international art shows.
Artinformal
Artinformal promotes various art forms, such as painting, multimedia, pottery, and sculpture. Established in 2004, it was meant to bring art to wider audiences through exhibition and education.
Most recently, they opened a new branch in Makati City four years ago, which features solo exhibitions from select artists. Its original Greenhills gallery continues to be a venue for curator-led group exhibitions.
Altro Mondo Creative Space
The Italian word for “other world,” Altro Mondo has held exhibitions for both local and international artists, as well as participation in festivals. To ensure that Filipino art continues to move forward, they hold events such as conferences and art residencies.
As of writing, they have the Creative Space that holds the aforementioned events, and the Picasso gallery for unorthodox artists.
Blanc
Blanc is another space for experimental practice and honing one’s craft regardless of status. It built its reputation through its acclaimed exhibition program and participation in various art fairs. Formerly split into three galleries, they have since consolidated into one space in Quezon City.
Galleria Duemila
Established in 1975, Galleria Duemila is the country’s oldest commercial art gallery. Aside from contemporary artists, they also carry rare works from renowned names such as Amorsolo, Cesar Legaspi, and Joel Joya among others. On occasion, they also feature performance art shows, musical events, and readings aside from carrying artworks.
Featured Image from GALLERIA DUEMILA (via Instagram)
