By Cedie Lazaro
If you think you’ve seen the peak of the Manila art scene, think again. This July, the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF) is making a “hotter comeback,” transforming the Marquis Events Place into a high-voltage hub of creativity and style.
From July 3 to 5, MoCAF isn’t just an art fair—it’s a sensory takeover. With nearly 30 galleries, immersive public installations via MoCAF XTN, and a crowd that’s as curated as the walls, this is where the city’s cultural pulse beats loudest.
The “Mavericks & Masters” Portfolio: 7 Artists to Watch
1. Toym Imao: The Legacy Evolution
Carrying one of the most prestigious names in Philippine art, Toym Imao doesn’t just build sculptures; he builds monuments to the Filipino soul. Expect intricate, large-scale works that bridge his father’s (National Artist Abdulmari Imao) legendary Sarimanok motifs with sharp, modern social commentary.
2. Tarantadong Kalbo: The Digital Satirist
Kevin Eric Raymundo is the voice that isn’t afraid to say it. Moving from viral webcomics to the gallery floor, his work is the ultimate “IYKYK” for the digital generation—sharp, funny, and unapologetically bold.
3. Ramon Orlina: The Glass Architect
The “Father of Philippine Glass Sculpture” returns. Watching an Orlina piece catch the light is a spiritual experience. This year, the master and his talented children continue to push the limits of transparency and form.
4. Glenn Perez: The Alchemist
Perez’s Aurumscape series is pure luxury. By manipulating metallic ores, he creates textured, shimmering landscapes that look like they’ve been pulled from a dream. It’s abstract art with a high-fashion finish.
5. Reese Ajero: The Cultural Weaver
Ajero captures the “Modern Filipina” aesthetic perfectly. Her work bridges the gap between our ancestral roots and our contemporary lifestyle, making her a favorite for collectors looking for soul and substance.
6. Arianna Bongato: The Visual Narrator
For those who love a “pretty picture” with a dark, historical twist, Bongato is your girl. Her narrative-driven pieces are cinematic, moody, and impossible to look away from.
7. Aeron Dizon: The Surreal Newbie
A standout of the MoCAF Discoveries roster, Dizon is the fresh energy the scene needs. His vibrant, surreal “Carnival of Power” compositions are a colorful trip through the imagination.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector looking for the next big investment or a creative soul seeking a weekend of inspiration, MoCAF 2026 is the definitive cultural appointment of the season. It’s more than just a gallery crawl; it’s a celebration of how far Philippine art has come—and a bold look at exactly where it’s headed.
Don’t just witness the movement; be part of it. Grab your tickets, dress for the occasion, and we’ll see you under the lights at the Marquis.
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Janeena Chan is on the cover of STYLISH Magazine right now. The multihyphenate media star, in-demand host, singer, actress, Sparkle artist, and our very own Stylish correspondent shares her journey as a modern Filipina-Chinese woman navigating her career in entertainment and lifestyle while embracing her heritage.
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