15 Exciting Art Exhibits in Manila You Shouldn’t Miss!

Before we dive in, let's start with an introduction. National Arts Month in the Philippines is an annual event spearheaded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts since 1991. It aims to celebrate Filipino artists and the Philippine art industry in all its various forms, categories, and genres. The Metro Manila art scene has grown dynamically over the years, with a wealth of art galleries and a growing number of international art fairs and auctions.

If you’re an artist or art enthusiast, this is the perfect time to explore some of the most dynamic exhibitions around the Metro! The scene is brimming with so much creativity, as proven by the number of art events happening in different museums and galleries. With that in mind, here are the top must-see art exhibits in Manila you shouldn’t miss during Arts Month!

Also read: 10 Heritage Tours in Manila That Should Be Under Your Travel Radar

1. Art Fair Philippines

Image credit: Art Fair Philippines Facebook Page

Art Fair Philippines is a highly anticipated annual event that brings together artists and art enthusiasts from Metro Manila and beyond. Since its debut in 2013, the fair has become a key showcase for the best of Southeast Asia's creative landscape. It features a wide range of works from established and emerging artists and is known for its mission to make art more accessible by hosting the event in a central, urban venue in the Makati Central Business District.

2. ALT Philippines

Image credit: ALT Philippines Facebook Page

ALT Philippines is another significant art event in Metro Manila, distinguishing itself with a focus on innovative and exploratory formats. The event is organised by a collective of leading art galleries and highlights some of the most exciting local visual artworks from both veteran and up-and-coming artists. Visitors can expect a unique, curated, and immersive experience that showcases the dynamic and experimental nature of the Philippine art scene.

3. Metropolitan Museum of Manila

Image credit: Metropolitan Museum of Manila Official Website

The Metropolitan Museum of Manila, also known as The M, is a premier institution for modern and contemporary visual arts by local and international artists. The museum's permanent collection is a highlight, featuring works by Filipino masters like 19th-century painter Félix Resurrección Hidalgo and National Artist Benedicto Cabrera (A.K.A. BenCab). The M's exhibitions aim to explore themes of modern and contemporary art and its relationship with the Philippines, making it a must-visit for a deeper understanding of the country's artistic heritage.

4. UP Vargas Museum

Image credit: Josh Lim

Located on the University of the Philippines Diliman campus, the UP Vargas Museum is a four-story institution with a rich collection of artworks and memorabilia. Its permanent collection, much of it donated by Jorge B. Vargas, the country's first Executive Secretary, spans from the 1880s to the 1960s. The museum is a hub for historical and artistic research, and the surrounding campus is home to sculptures that represent the country's pre-colonial past.

Also read: 10 Tour-Worthy Universities in The Philippines You Must Visit

5. Ateneo Art Gallery

Image credit: Ateneo Art Gallery Official Website

Housed in the Areté building, the Ateneo Art Gallery holds the distinction of being the first museum of Philippine modern art. Its permanent collection is a cornerstone of the post-war era, featuring works with distinct styles such as neo-realism, abstract expressionism, and post-modern hybridism. Visitors can admire paintings by National Artists like Arturo Luz, Ang Kiukok, and Fernando Amorsolo, while the upper floors are dedicated to contemporary and experimental art.

6. Museum of Contemporary Art and Design

Image credit: Museum of Contemporary Art and Design Facebook Page

The Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, situated within the College of Saint Benilde's School of Design and Art, is a key player in the Taft Avenue art scene. MCAD is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art that is both innovative and inclusive. Its exhibitions often touch on historical and socio-political themes, highlighting how technology and new media influence modern culture.

7. MO_Space

Image credit: MO_Space Facebook Page

MO_Space is a notable, artist-run gallery located above a furniture store in Bonifacio High Street. This space is known for its ever-changing exhibitions that push the boundaries of Philippine art. The gallery features a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and video, making it an excellent stop for those looking for a glimpse into the cutting-edge of the local art scene.

8. Artinformal Makati

Image credit: Artinformal

Located in the vibrant Karrivin Plaza, Artinformal Makati is an art space with a focus on contemporary art. Known for its all-white, semi-brutalist interior, the gallery provides a serene backdrop for a variety of contemporary artworks. It's a great spot to explore new art in a bustling, creative hub.

9. 1335MABINI

Image credit: 1335MABINI Facebook Page

Right next to Artinformal is 1335MABINI, an international gallery with strong roots in the Metro Manila art community. The gallery showcases works by both Filipino and international artists, with a commitment to exploring themes of mobility, history, and critical engagement with collective memory and politics.

10. Silverlens Galleries

Image credit: Silverlens Official Website

Silverlens Galleries pioneered the concept of the warehouse art gallery in Metro Manila back in 2004. Starting as a studio for photographic works, it has since expanded to a full-service gallery that showcases a wide range of experimental artworks and installations. It's an important stop for anyone interested in the evolution of the contemporary art gallery in the Philippines.

11. Art Underground Manila

Image credit: Art Underground Manila Official Website

Art Underground is a gallery tucked away on a quiet side street near Shaw Boulevard. It serves as a platform for contemporary visual art practices, showcasing a mix of painting, sculpture, and new media. The gallery’s works often reconcile timeless notions with intriguing postmodern themes, offering a thought-provoking experience for visitors.

12. Arte Bettina

Image credit: Arte Bettina Facebook Page

Located among the upscale boutiques of Greenbelt 5, Arte Bettina caters to the local art collecting community. The gallery features a rotating selection of modern and contemporary works by both emerging and established Filipino artists, providing an excellent opportunity to discover new talent.

13. Galerie Stephanie

Image credit: Galerie Stephanie Official Website

For a quiet respite from shopping in Shangri-La Plaza, Galerie Stephanie is a great destination. Located in the East Wing, the gallery is a space to fully appreciate contemporary art. It consistently features a diverse range of exhibitions, making it a reliable spot for art enthusiasts.

14. Calle Wright

Image credit: Calle Wright Official Website

Calle Wright is an art space located inside a two-story ancestral house built in the 1950s. The owners refer to it as a "hybrid between a gallery and a museum," and it’s known for its unique, long-running exhibitions. Its promotion of slowing down to appreciate art in a historical context makes for a memorable and contemplative experience.

15. Limbo

Image credit: Limbo Facebook Page

Limbo offers a unique experience in Makati's Poblacion district, blending a bar atmosphere with an art-centric space. Describing itself as a "midnight gallery and bar," Limbo caters to a creative crowd, allowing patrons to enjoy impressive works by up-and-coming artists while grabbing a drink.

Also read: The New Museo de Intramuros Is Officially Open!

Ready to discover more about the local modern and contemporary art scene? Get #cultured and explore these exciting art galleries and museums in Metro Manila! 

Make the most out of these exciting activities happening this Arts Month! We can’t wait to hear and see your stories on art exhibits in Manila after. Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram at @tripzillaph, and use our hashtags #TripZillaPH and #MakeTravelHappen!