4 Things to Look Forward to at Modern and Contemporary Art Festival 2023

While viewing artworks in a museum is fulfilling, there is a sense of satisfaction that comes with meeting the artists who created them. Mark your calendars as the highly anticipated Modern and Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF), taking place from July 28-30 at Fairmont Makati and various locations in Metro Manila, will bring together the country’s up-and-coming artists to showcase their works, including paintings, sculptures, and digital art. To make sure you make the most out of your visit, here are four things to look forward to at MoCAF 2023!

1. Art Exhibitions at Fairmont Makati

The majority of MoCAF 2023 festivities will happen at The Grand Ballroom of Fairmont Makati hotel. Expect to be treated to a flurry of art displays, including internationally acclaimed sculptor Daniel de la Cruz’s “Garden Masquerade” exhibition, where you’ll see flora-inspired artworks; and Ramon Orlina and Marge Organo’s joint gallery called “Glass House” featuring stunning sculptures made of glass.

If you have a fascination for Web 3.0, you’ll fall in love with CryptoArt Philippines’ NFT exhibition titled “Cascading Horizons: Uniting the Fluid Now,” which spotlights eye-catching NFT-integrated murals.

2. Galleries Across Metro Manila

Can’t make it to Fairmont Makati? Don’t fret, as MoCAF 2023 extends beyond its main location. Renowned galleries and art houses such as Cartellino, Art Lounge Manila, Galerie Stephanie, Village Art Gallery, Vinyl on Vinyl, and more will showcase exclusive pieces such as paintings, sculptures, and immersive artworks.

Click here for the full list of participating exhibitors.

3. Meet the Artists of MoCAF 2023

This year, MoCAF 2023 will put a spotlight on 40 emerging contemporary artists who are shaping the Philippine art scene. Don’t miss out on the chance to rub elbows with visual artist and marketer Ian Inoy, maximalist artist Nicole Asares, painter Paulo Amparo, doodle artists seeweirdo and Raphael Labuntog, and more. Each artist will exhibit their works at Fairmont Makati, where you can take photos, marvel at the artworks, and converse with the artists themselves.

See the MoCAF Discoveries list here.

4. MoCAF Dialogues

Following the success of the pre-festival events such as the MoCAF Bazaar and the MoCAF Painting Workshop with Patricia Ramos, you’re probably looking for more ways to expand your knowledge of the Philippine art landscape. Aside from galleries and exhibitions, MoCAF 2023 will mount an art seminar called MoCAF Dialogues, where some of your favorite local artists will discuss their humble beginnings, artistic journeys, and art styles that will inspire you to start making art.

The organizers have yet to announce the official lineup and schedule, so make sure to follow MoCAF on Instagram to stay updated.