The Ortigas Art Festival returned this year with a broader scope and new venue, marking its first run at GH Mall from July 10 to 24 with the theme, “Art for All: A Celebration of Borderless Artistic Expression.”
Now in its eighth year, the festival has evolved from a local exhibit into a nationally recognized cultural event, receiving awards from the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards and International Business Awards for its accessibility and innovation.
This year’s edition took over multiple spaces across GH Mall, including the East and South Wing Atriums, the 4F Tech Hub, and Promenade Cinema, turning everyday venues into public galleries. Exhibits featured visual art, fashion, photography, and analog film, with participation from both emerging and established Filipino artists.
Among the featured artists were Totong Francisco, grandson of National Artist Carlos Francisco; Raul Roco Jr., son of the late senator; and fashion designer Chynna Mamawal. Groups from across the country, such as the Angono Artists, Linangan Art Residency, Redlab Gallery, and Shine Vitto Galerie from Mindoro, were also represented.
Ortigas Art Festival consultant and head curator Renato Habulan said the initiative aims to “bring art closer to people and people closer to art,” underscoring its commitment to accessibility and education.
Workshops, talks, and interactive activities were held at the Tech Hub, with participation from the Philippine Guild of Watercolorists, Pasig Art Club, and Born in Film. Free film screenings, in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines, featured local titles such as Babae at Baril, John Denver Trending, and Thy Womb at the Promenade Cinema.
The festival also included performances by The Learning Tree, Halili School of Dance, and UPeepz, reflecting an expanded focus on interdisciplinary art forms.
