Take part in the rebirth of the local art scene, especially after in-person events were mostly shelved during the past two years because of the pandemic. Presented by publishing house and multimedia platform Art+, the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival or MoCAF, is an exciting showcase of artworks both by revered masters and up-and-coming artists that reflects the eclectic and ever-changing contemporary art scene in the Philippines.
By. Alvy S. Alviar
The country’s leading galleries will be showcasing a selection of the most engaging works of art from some of today’s best Filipino artists at the Modern and Contemporary Aft Festival or MoCAF. “We envision MoCAF as a momentous culmination of modern and contemporary artists, galleries and collectors. We want to bridge together opportunities in these different art sectors to grow and appreciate one another’s endeavors,” shares Ricky Francisco, director of Fundación Sansó.
Boasting of a dynamic program of curated exhibitions, insightful talks and pivotal discoveries that are bound to appeal to discerning collectors and art enthusiasts, the event is made more impactful with the participation of such international galleries as YOD Gallery and Gallery Kogure of Japan. YOD Gallery, in particular, will be showcasing pop art made by a select group of Japanese artists.
Ramon Orlina, Michael Cacnio, Anton Del Castilo, Robert Alejandro, National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz and the celebrated Juvenal Sansó are just some of the artists who will be showcased at MoCAF’s special exhibitions. With its impressive lineup of artists and lecturers, MoCAF is bound to be an immersive art experience for the whole art community.
There will also be some newer faces who will get to showcase their talents. Indy Paredes of Gravity Art Space gallery will have his first public exhibition at MoCAF alongside Bam Garibay of the Linangan Art Residency, an alternative art school focused on developing Philippine art and culture through residencies, workshops and educational programs. There will also be a contemporary print-making exhibition featuring such artists as Elmer Borlongan, Angela Silva, Maya Muñoz and Henrielle Pagkaliwangan.
“We started MoCAF in order to showcase works from both modern masters and cutting-edge contemporary artists through well-curated special exhibitions. We aim to promote young and emerging Filipino artists and give them a sense of empowerment through participation in our art festival,” explains Jewel Chuaunsu, MoCAF head of operations.
MoCAF will also be hosting a lecture series that includes many timely topics such as economics of art, the market surrounding it, art publishing and collecting art. Noteworthy speakers include Julius Babao, Ambassador Jose Mari Cariño, Gus Vibal and Jewel Chuansu. Those who would like to know more about how Philippine artworks fare in the global art scene can also take part in “Curators Speak: Philippine Arts in Venice Biennale.”
“We want to ignite interest in the arts in all sectors of society and help generate and educate new art audiences. And through our efforts, we hope to highlight arts and culture as essential elements for social development, creating a space for cultural communication through art,” adds Jewel Chuansu.
MoCAF will run from July 29 to July 31 at Fairmont Hotel Makati.
For more information and for ticket registration, visit www.mocaf.net, or follow @mocaf.net on Facebook and @mocafmanila on Instagram.
