Cover Ortigas Art Festival’s opening ceremony graced by (From top left) Angono artist Totong Francisco; Nemiranda, founder of Angono Ateliers Association; fashion designer Chynna Mamawal; Tess Rayos Del Sol, head of the National Committee on Art Galleries; Angono, Rizal councilor Jhoanne Saguinsin; San Juan City mayor Francis Zamora; Renee Bacani, Ortigas Malls vice president; Pasig City councilor Angelu De Leon; Helen Mirasol and Renato Habulan, Ortigas Art Festival head curators and consultants; Franz Lopez, Born in Film founder; (From bottom left) Monique Castañeda, Ortigas Malls AVP and head of marketing; Ortigas family members JV Sullano, Alex Ortigas-Sullano, Maritess Ortigas, Maite Ortigas; and Cathy Dueñas, Ortigas Malls AVP head of leasing
Ortigas Art Festival’s opening ceremony graced by (From top left) Angono artist Totong Francisco; Nemiranda, founder of Angono Ateliers Association; fashion designer Chynna Mamawal; Tess Rayos Del Sol, head of the National Committee on Art Galleries; Angono, Rizal councilor Jhoanne Saguinsin; San Juan City mayor Francis Zamora; Renee Bacani, Ortigas Malls vice president; Pasig City councilor Angelu De Leon; Helen Mirasol and Renato Habulan, Ortigas Art Festival head curators and consultants; Franz Lopez, Born in Film founder; (From bottom left) Monique Castañeda, Ortigas Malls AVP and head of marketing; Ortigas family members JV Sullano, Alex Ortigas-Sullano, Maritess Ortigas, Maite Ortigas; and Cathy Dueñas, Ortigas Malls AVP head of leasing
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From a local exhibit then to a nationally recognised cultural event now, the acclaimed Ortigas Art Festival expands further to embrace the best of Filipino artistry
The Ortigas Art Festival is running until July 24, with the theme “Art for All: A Celebration of Borderless Artistic Expression” for the first time at GH Mall. Recipient of the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards and the International Business Awards for its innovation and public accessibility, the Ortigas Art Festival aims to continuously create real and lasting impact on the Philippine art scene as it celebrates its eighth anniversary.
At its core, “art for all” has become the guiding principle of the Ortigas Art Festival, seeking to break down walls that divide artistic disciplines, between artists and audiences, and between the art world and everyday life.
“The Ortigas Art Festival shows us that art is not confined to galleries nor exclusive for collectors, but experienced by people from all walks of life,” says the organising committee in a statement. “It’s also about providing platforms that empower communities, amplify underrepresented voices, and support both emerging and established artists in ways that go beyond the commercial.”
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Above ‘Cityrama’ by Monnar
‘Cityrama’ by Monnar
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The Ortigas Art Festival prides itself on having free exhibitions, open-to-the-public workshops, free movie screenings and diverse programming, bringing art closer to the people.
“Our mission has always been to bring art closer to the people and the people closer to art,” says Renato Habulan, artist and Ortigas Art Festival’s consultant and head curator. “We believe that by making art more accessible, we’re helping artists grow, communities connect, and creating meaningful cultural experiences for everyone.”
The festival’s curated exhibitions feature a dynamic mix of Filipino talent, many of whom are deeply connected to their local communities.
Above Photographs from the Ortigas Art Festival 2025’s Annex Wing exhibition
Photographs from the Ortigas Art Festival 2025’s Annex Wing exhibition
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Totong Francisco, the grandson of National Artist Carlos Francisco, and Raul Roco Jr, son of the late beloved Senator Roco, will display their works, along with a fashion design exhibit featuring Chynna Mamawal, and a photography exhibit by Born in Film, Redlab and many more artists.
In the East Wing Atrium, guests can discover works from Angono Artists, hailed as the art capital of the Philippines, Linangan Art Residency, Ortigas Foundation, Redlab Gallery, San Juan Artists, Shine Vitto Galerie from Mindoro, artists from Pasig City and more. These groups represent not only artistic excellence but also the vibrancy of regional narratives and diverse cultural identities across the Philippines.
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Above ‘Biomorphic Dialogue’ by Tyrone Espinosa
‘Biomorphic Dialogue’ by Tyrone Espinosa
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The South Wing Atrium showcases galleries, such as Art Circle, Art Point, Jean & Jaz Gallerie, Nami Art and Born in Film, offering a rich visual experience that spans painting, mixed media and analogue photography.
And for those wanting more than just a viewing experience, the 4/F Tech Hub is where you can roll up your sleeves and get involved. With a lineup of workshops, artist talks, forums and pop-ups, it’s a space built for creative discovery. Mallgoers can join the Watercolour pop-up art fair by the Philippine Guild of Watercolorists (PGW); an art talk by Linangan’s Manny Garibay; workshops by Pasig Art Club and Born in Film at the South Wing Atrium.
These programmes allow the public not only to engage with art but also to learn from the very artists creating it, turning them from passive viewers into active participants.
Above ‘Pag-ahon Patungong Tagumpay’ by Shine Vitto
‘Pag-ahon Patungong Tagumpay’ by Shine Vitto
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Art for All also means celebrating creativity in all its forms—not just on canvas. The Promenade Cinema featured free screenings of acclaimed Filipino films, thanks to a collaboration with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Screenings included Babae at Baril last July 11, John Denver Trending last July 12 and Thy Womb this coming July 18 at 7pm at Cinema 4 of The Promenade.
On the fashion front, designer Chynna Mamawal presents expressive pieces that blur the lines between couture and concept. The Learning Tree, Halili School of Dance and UPeepz bring the rhythm and grace of movement to the stage.
Above Ortigas Foundation’s exhibition of “Bringing History to Life” by Leo Aquino
Ortigas Foundation’s exhibition of “Bringing History to Life” by Leo Aquino
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This multidisciplinary approach reflects the evolving nature of art today—expansive, interdisciplinary and deeply collaborative.
Admission to all exhibits and screenings is free. For workshops, be sure to register to confirm your slot.
“Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious wanderer, or someone looking for inspiration, this festival is your invitation to explore the boundless world of creativity—no gatekeeping, no barriers,” says the organising committee in a statement. “Because here, art isn’t just for some—it’s for all.”
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
