Your next art-filled afternoon doesn’t have to involve booking a ticket or stepping inside a traditional gallery.
The 9th Ortigas Art Festival has transformed GH Mall into an accessible creative space filled with paintings, sculptures, literature, films and hands-on activities. Guided by this year’s theme, “Elevate,” the festival brings together established cultural icons and the next generation of Filipino artists, all under one roof and with free admission.
Here are five reasons it deserves a spot on your plans before the festival ends.
- You can experience the work of Filipino cultural icons
The festival gives visitors a closer look at the work and influence of some of the country’s most important creative figures.
Literary works by National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario, also known as Rio Alma, are presented alongside a retrospective honoring National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal. The festival also features works by Junyee, widely known as the “Father of Philippine Installation Art.”
Together, their displays show how Filipino creativity can move across poetry, theater, sculpture and the spaces around us. It’s a rare opportunity to encounter the work of major cultural figures in an accessible and relaxed setting.
- It introduces you to the next generation of Filipino artists
While the festival celebrates respected names, it also keeps an eye on what comes next.
This year marks the launch of the inaugural Ortigas Art Competition, a developmental program created to recognize emerging painters and sculptors through their portfolios and creative journeys, rather than judging them based on a single artwork.
From an initial group of 45 shortlisted candidates, 24 finalists were selected from artist collectives and residency programs across the Philippines. These include Eskinita Art Farm, Linangan Art Residency, Thombayan Art Space, Collective Artists of Angono, Mindoro Artist Group and Art Circle Gallery.
Their works will be featured in a dedicated pop-up exhibition in January 2027. The eventual winner will receive an all-expenses-paid, curator-accompanied immersion trip to Art Basel Hong Kong 2027 and a solo exhibition at the 10th Ortigas Art Festival.
A visit now gives audiences an early introduction to artists they may be hearing much more about in the future.
- There’s much more to explore than paintings
You don’t need to know the difference between artistic movements or arrive with a carefully rehearsed interpretation of every piece.
The Ortigas Art Festival has expanded beyond traditional visual art to include literature, film and theater design. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, installations and other handmade works created by artists from different parts of the country.
The variety makes the festival approachable for both serious art enthusiasts and curious first-time visitors. Take your time, look closely and see which works capture your attention.
- You can discover Filipino films for free
The festival also includes free film screenings at Cinema 4 in Promenade, presented in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Film Development Council of the Philippines.
It’s an easy way to include a Filipino film in your visit and discover stories you might not usually encounter during a regular trip to the cinema.
Film schedules may vary, so check the Ortigas Art Festival’s official Facebook page before heading to GH Mall.
- You can join free creative workshops
After spending time looking at other people’s work, you may feel inspired to make something of your own.
The festival includes free workshops catering to different creative interests. These activities give visitors the chance to learn, experiment and experience art beyond simply viewing it.
Workshop schedules and available slots vary, so it’s best to check the festival’s official social media pages for the latest updates before your visit.
Schedules for film screenings and workshops may vary. Visit the Ortigas Art Festival Facebook page and GH Mall’s official social media pages for updated times and registration details.
The Ortigas Art Festival runs only until July 31, giving you a few more days to explore Filipino art, discover emerging talent and find a little creative inspiration of your own