The East Wing of Estancia Mall in Pasig City is the venue of the highly anticipated 6th Ortigas Art Festival 2023, a month-long celebration organized by Ortigas Malls that aims to “create connections through accessible art exhibits” and bring together artists, art supporters and enthusiasts, and the wider community.
From July 12 to Aug. 13, 2023, visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse world of art, explore various artistic forms, and participate in educational workshops—all within the comfortable ambiance of Estancia’s East Wing.
Under the overarching theme “Art for All: An Exhibition of Borderless Passion & Craft,” the 6th edition of the Ortigas Art Festival embraces the belief that “art is for all and has the power to unite people from different walks of life.” This free event is dedicated to showcasing the talents of artists who aspire to reach a wider audience and foster a greater appreciation for the arts beyond the confines of traditional gallery spaces.
Championing Filipino art and craftsmanship
Architect Renee Bacani, vice president of Ortigas Malls, expressed the company’s commitment to championing Filipino art and craftsmanship, emphasizing its desire to bring these creative expressions closer to the hearts of Filipinos through the annual art exhibit.
“This year’s festival promises to be unique, as talented artists from Rizal, Pangasinan, Bulacan, and Davao will share their masterpieces, knowledge, and artistic journeys throughout the month-long event,” Bacani said. “We are proud to host this event and use one of our malls as venue as we contribute to art awareness and also allows us to inspire the youth, especially the next generation of artists.”
Renato “Mang Ato” Habulan, the esteemed head curator of Agos Studio and Linangan Residency, expressed gratitude toward Ortigas Malls for providing a platform that has allowed artists to connect with a broader market over the past six years. “The Ortigas Art Festival plays a vital role in educating people about various art forms and empowering individuals to build a community through artistic expression.”
At the heart of the Ortigas Art Festival lies a wide range of art appreciation experiences. One of the standouts is the Art Caravan by Habulan—a traveling exhibit that has brought art to different communities, fostering collaboration between artists and encouraging creativity to flourish outside the confines of their studios. Visitors can admire these pieces at the Agos Studio and Linangan Art Residency exhibits.
Additionally, seasoned and up-and-coming Filipino artists from Davao, led by Rita Bustamante, will showcase their artworks, adding a distinct flavor to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
On the other hand, the Ortigas Foundation will present vintage photographs from 1900-1920, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Southern Philippines and Cordillera. Meanwhile, Red Lab Gallery will display fine print photographs, offering visitors a unique visual experience.
Film enthusiasts will delight in the free Night Film Screenings organized by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Critically acclaimed Filipino movies directed by Regina Cadena (Sonata), Paolo Villaluna (Pauwi Na), and Zig Dulay (Paglipay) will be screened. Aspiring filmmakers can also participate in the Ortigas Vertical Cinema Contest, themed “Pursuit of Happiness,” for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Dance and music enthusiasts are in for a treat, as Step by Step Performing Arts Studio, Bughaw Folkloric, and Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild are scheduled to perform throughout the Ortigas Art Festival, providing captivating displays of talent and cultural expression.
Fashion lovers will have the opportunity to marvel at the Miss Universe National Costume Exhibit by Empire PH and the Couture and Bridal Dress Exhibit by Kaayo Modern Mindanao, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of Filipino designers.
Sharing the knowledge and love for arts
In the spirit of making arts and crafts more accessible to all, the Ortigas Art Festival will host a series of talks and workshops.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the art of pottery with OdangPutik or create intricate macrame pieces in partnership with Luntian Kagubatan and Agos Studio. The Philippine Bonsai Society and Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Manila will conduct back-to-back workshops, allowing attendees to delve into the intricate worlds of bonsai and ikebana, respectively.
Notable speakers such as John Silva, executive director of the Ortigas Foundation, and Dr. Laya Boquiren Gonzales, a professor at the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P), will share their knowledge and insights in engaging talks. Additionally, a poetry reading of Dante Alighieri’s “Inferno” will be conducted by a professor from UA&P.
“Throughout the festival, Comment Boards will be available, encouraging viewers to take a critical view of the artworks and promoting thoughtful discussions. This interactive element has become an integral part of each Ortigas Art Festival, allowing attendees to actively engage with the art and contribute to the collective artistic experience,” said Helen Mirasol, consultant of Ortigas Art Festival.
Through the Ortigas Art Festival, Estancia Mall continues to champion its advocacy of bringing art closer to more Filipinos, offering them a respite from the challenges of everyday life. The festival serves as a gateway for individuals to delve deeper into the world of art, discover their own artistic inclinations, and forge connections within the artistic community.
Habulan encapsulates the essence of the festival, “We have to teach art to a wider audience because it can enlighten people. I hope we can connect not only with young artists but also with ordinary people who have the potential to create more art.”
Indeed, art possesses the remarkable ability to bridge gaps and unite individuals from all walks of life. Let us come together and immerse ourselves in the transformative power of art at the Ortigas Art Festival 2023.
Experience the Ortigas Art Festival 2023, held at the East Wing, Estancia Mall in Pasig City, from July 12 to Aug. 13, 2023. For more information and updates, follow Ortigas Art Festival on Facebook, and Estancia on Facebook and Instagram.
