The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) introduces Museum and Galleries Month.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) announced the activities for Museum and Galleries Month, highlighting the important contribution of art galleries and museums in enhancing Filipino culture.
Every October since 1991, a celebration has been held as mandated by Presidential Proclamation No. 798. This event highlights the importance of preserving artistic heritage, promoting artistic expression, and cultivating a greater appreciation for Philippine history and identity.
According to Oscar G. Casaysay, the executive director of the NCCA, Philippine art has consistently mirrored the circumstances and conflicts of its society. The current theme for celebration highlights the role of art as a social responsibility, challenging the belief that it is only meant for amusement.
“The number of art enthusiasts and collectors is increasing. Filipinos who have disposable income are making wise investments in the art industry. The government recognizes this,” he stated.
The inaugural gathering took place on October 1st at the Old Senate Session Hall, located in the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila.
The NCCA and National Museum are facing the task of securing the role of museums and galleries in the Philippines with their theme, “Exhibits and Reflections: Crafting Opportunities for the New World.”
According to Jorell M. Legaspi, the deputy director general for museums at the National Museum, visiting museums provides Filipinos with a place for discussion and reflection. Whether they visit for a romantic outing or to create social media content, the decision to go to a museum instead of a shopping mall is already a positive step. This can serve as an introduction to the country’s art and culture.
EVENTS
The celebration of Arts Month began before October with the Mindanao Art Fair taking place from Sept. 25 to Oct. 1. This event showcased how artists from Mindanao have adjusted to the “new normal” and continued creating. The fair was held at SM Lanang in Davao City, featuring various works by Mindanaoan artists.
th Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival
Art pieces influenced by the social, cultural, and communal settings of Northern Luzon were displayed at the 13th Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.th
The Tam-Awan International Arts Festival will be held from October 4 to 8 at Tam-Awan Village in Baguio.
During the month of October, the NCCA Gallery in General Luna St., Intramuros is offering free exhibitions on traditional weaving. The first exhibit, titled “BUILDA: Contemporary Itneg Weaves,” highlights the cloth and embroidery of the Agaid-Mina clan, specifically the work of Normandino Mina, Sr. and his family. The second exhibit, “INUBON a DAYAW (Strings of Hope),” features the life and art of Manlilikha ng Bayan Magdalena Gamayo, providing a unique opportunity to view her inabel creations displayed in clear acrylic sheets.
Meanwhile, the 15th
The ManilART fair is scheduled to occur from October 11 to 15 at the SMX Aura Convention Center in Taguig City. This art fair will feature thirty galleries and two special project areas. Additionally, it includes an art tour for more than 1,000 students, as part of the NCCA’s efforts to introduce Filipino youth to the country’s art scene.
The Luzon Art Fair is taking place in Tarlac City from Oct. 26 to 29, featuring 75 artists, museums, and galleries. Its goal is to rejuvenate the art and culture scene in Central Luzon by collaborating with different groups including artist-led organizations, up-and-coming artists, academia, and businesses.
Mr. Legaspi expressed that regardless of which museum or gallery you visit this month, you will be warmly welcomed. He emphasized that there will always be a space for Filipinos to expand their knowledge on arts, culture, and heritage. In a society where information can feel overwhelming and temporary, museums and galleries provide a refuge for reflection and in-depth understanding.
