I like it when institutions take art out of the intimidating space of the museum and gallery and put it in high-traffic areas for everyday people to see. Not only does it make a space more beautiful, it allows people to see how talented Filipino artists are. It makes my heart swell with pride when I hear record-breaking visits to Art in the Park and Art Fair Philippines.
SM is joining the movement to bring art to everyone with Art For Everyone, a week-long exhibit across 23 SM Malls to showcase the talent of local artists. I got to visit the exhibit in SM Aura, where they featured works curated by the Center for Art, New Ventures & Sustainable Development (CANVAS), a non-profit aimed to promote children’s literacy, explore national identity, and deepen public appreciation for Philippine art, culture, and the environment.
This year’s theme was Looking for Juan: The Filipino Dreamer.
Here are some of my favorite works:
Pagpupugay Kay Andres by Neil A. Manalo, Maestro Rizal by Neil A. Manalo, and Eclipse by Karen Flores
BAK(w)IT? by Archie Oclos
Katiwala 24/7 by Plet Bolipata and Senses by Farley del Rosario
Ang Patuloy na Pag-usad ng Lipunang May Sayad by Sangviaje
Itim na Poon by Angelo Magno and Manila Kristos by Auggie Fontanilla
Art for Everyone ran from August 27 to September 2 at the Upper Ground Floor of the SM Aura Atrium, but you can catch it again next year!
This story is in partnership with SM Aura. For more information, follow Art in Aura on Facebook and Instagram, and SM Aura on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.