Ortigas Art Festival 2026 Brings Filipino Creativity to Life at GH Mall
Free art exhibits, film screenings, live performances, and workshops make the 9th Ortigas Art Festival a must visit celebration of Filipino talent.
Filipino creativity takes center stage once again as the 9th Ortigas Art Festival returns to GH Mall from July 17 to 30, 2026, transforming one of Metro Manila's premier shopping destinations into a vibrant hub of art, culture, music, film, and creativity. Admission is completely free, making it an ideal destination for families, students, art lovers, and curious visitors looking for inspiration.
This year's festival carries the theme "Elevate," highlighting the remarkable growth of the Ortigas Art Festival over the past nine years. What started as a painting exhibition has blossomed into one of Metro Manila's most celebrated multidisciplinary arts festivals, staying true to its long-standing advocacy of "Art for All."
A Bigger Celebration of Filipino Art and Culture
Visitors can immerse themselves in an exciting lineup of contemporary art exhibitions, interactive installations, independent film screenings, live performances, and hands-on creative workshops. The festival offers something for every kind of art enthusiast, whether you're an avid collector, an aspiring artist, or simply someone looking to appreciate local talent.
Adding even more significance to this year's event is the launch of the Ortigas Art Grant, a new initiative created to support promising Filipino artists. The grant aims to help emerging creatives develop their craft while providing valuable opportunities to showcase their work on a larger stage.
The festival opening gathered distinguished guests including Monique Castaneda, Assistant Vice President and Head of Marketing of Ortigas Malls, Lead Curator Renato "Ato" Habulan, San Juan City Vice Mayor Jose Angelo Rafael Agcaoili, and Ortigas Malls Vice President Arch. Renee Bacani, together with the first batch of Ortigas Art Grant participants.
Honoring National Artists and Cultural Icons
One of this year's biggest highlights is its tribute to some of the country's most respected cultural figures.
A special exhibition celebrates National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario through a collaboration with the University of the Philippines Press, while another exhibit pays tribute to the legendary National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
The festival also shines the spotlight on celebrated environmental sculptor Junyee, widely recognized as the Father of Philippine Installation Art. His remarkable use of natural materials and large-scale installations reflects the festival's commitment to promoting innovative and meaningful artistic expression.
A Rich Collection of Galleries and Artist Communities
Art lovers can explore works from some of the country's respected galleries and artist groups, including:
- Agos Studio's 50th Anniversary Kaisahan Exhibition
- Eskinita Art Gallery
- Linangan Art Residency
- Thombayan Art Space
- Art Circle Gallery
- Historia Art Gallery
- Nami Art Gallery
- Collective Artists of Angono
- Mindoro Artists Group
- Pasig Art Club
- Ortigas Foundation
- Various artist-run initiatives
Photography enthusiasts can also enjoy a special exhibition by Born in Film, featuring nostalgic and contemporary photographs that capture the beauty and diversity of the Philippines.
Independent Filipino Cinema Takes the Spotlight
Film lovers have plenty to look forward to as cinema becomes a major part of this year's festival.
In partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the festival presents a carefully curated lineup of independent Filipino films ranging from award-winning shorts to acclaimed full-length features.
Among the featured screenings are:
- Cinemartrys
- Alipato at Muog
- Selections from Lakbay Sine
- Gawad Alternatibo
- Cinemalaya
Audiences can also watch the documentary That We May See, directed by Paul Morales, which revisits the story of the influential artist collective Kaisahan on its 50th anniversary. Films by acclaimed filmmaker Sari Dalena, together with notable short films such as I'm The Best Left Inside My Head by Elian Idoma and Pastil: Parehas Ra Ta'g Kan-on'g Ginakaon by Andrei Francis "Franky" C. Arrocena, further enrich this year's cinematic lineup.
Free Creative Workshops for Everyone
The Ortigas Art Festival encourages visitors to go beyond simply viewing artworks by joining its free interactive workshops.
Participants can learn various creative techniques including:
- Acrylic pouring
- Block printing
- Textured plaster art
- Paper cutting
- Sketching
- Storytelling
- Copyright masterclasses by Born in Film
Whether you're trying art for the very first time or looking to sharpen your creative skills, these workshops offer an enjoyable and welcoming environment for all ages.
Ortigas Art Grant Opens New Doors for Emerging Artists
Marking a major milestone for the festival, the inaugural Ortigas Art Grant provides long-term support for promising Filipino artists beyond this year's exhibition.
Shortlisted artists will create new works to be showcased during the 2027 festival, while the selected grant recipient will receive special recognition during the Ortigas Art Festival's 10th anniversary celebration. The winner will also gain an international exposure opportunity connected to Art Basel Hong Kong 2027, opening valuable doors to the global art scene.
Art That Belongs to Everyone
One of the defining qualities of the Ortigas Art Festival has always been its accessibility.
Unlike traditional galleries that may feel intimidating to some, the festival creates an inviting space where everyone can appreciate art. Families spending the day at the mall, students exploring Philippine cinema, aspiring photographers, seasoned collectors, and casual visitors can all find something that sparks curiosity and appreciation.
Over the years, the festival's "Art for All" vision has grown into more than just a slogan. It has become a meaningful celebration that encourages people to pause, look closer, and connect with Filipino creativity in a setting that's open, welcoming, and accessible.
For updates on upcoming workshops, featured artists, and festival announcements, follow the Ortigas Art Festival on Facebook. You can also stay updated on future events by joining the Ortigas Malls Viber Community and following GH Mall on Facebook.
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