The first Modern and Contemporary Art Festival 2022 recently showcased artworks from local artists, including up-and-coming names, to a returning and excited local art crowd.
By Reggie Abang
The grand ballroom at Fairmont Hotel recently opened its doors to art lovers for the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF) 2022.
For their first offering, MoCAF showcased artworks from local contemporary artists, including up-and-coming names such as such as Ginoe, CHNO, Delmo, and Jane Cuevas, whose works were highlighted in the “Art+ Discovery” exhibit.
Artist Dominic Rubio and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco
Makati Mayor Abby Binay, Galerie Joaquin owner Jack Tiotico and artist Ramon Orlina
Makati Mayor Abby Binay-Campos and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco led in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. They were joined by National Center for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman Dr. Rene Escalante, NCCA Executive Director Oscar Casaysay, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Visual Arts and Museum Division Head Rita Estrada, HSBC senior vice president and head of wealth and personal banking Daniel J. Barrie, HSBC Savings Bank President and CEO Patrick Henry Carlos, and Fairmont Makati Cluster General Manager Bernd Schneider.
Before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the owner of Galerie Joaquin and PeopleAsia Men Who Matter 2022 awardee Jack Teotico, who was present as one of the exhibitors, said they never thought they would be able to launch the exhibit successfully in the middle of the pandemic.
“Fortunately, the Department of Health said there will be no changes in the Alert Level until July 31, and recently, the President said (there will be) no lockdowns, so thank you for being here, everybody,” he said.
In her speech, Frasco believed that arts, culture and heritage is the “soul of any community,” and taking care of them is one of the top priorities of the current administration, especially in boosting the country’s tourism.
“I firmly believe that art, culture, and heritage is the soul of any community, and taking care of our soul will be a top priority considering the position of the President to give attention to the creative industry,” she said.
In an interview, the art exhibit manager Coleen Wong said that holding MoCAF 2022 felt “relieving and nostalgic.” She also added that it has been a long time since they had a physical art festival that features modern and contemporary art.
She also said they are happy to know that even if the pandemic is still arund, most art lovers still come and see the exhibit.
“It honors us that so many people (came) on our first day and, so far, everyone is enjoying it. They miss these types of events, she said.
Wong also said that MoCAF also opened up opportunities for younger artists to showcase their visual artworks and most people find interest in them.
“When we the sneak peek, a lot of them are very interested, while some are already reserving even a month before,” she said.
She added that the art festival would motivate up-and-coming artists to pave the way in the local art industry.
