In keeping true to its aim to make art accessible to all, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila has launched a benefit exhibition gathering more than 200 art pieces in different mediums.
The MET Open 2014, which opened Sept. 21 and will run until Oct. 4, will feature paintings, sculptures, mixed-media works, ceramics, art installations and performance art that reflect, enable and challenge the current state of Philippine art.
The exhibit is a mish-mash of both contemporary and modern art that is sure to elicit nods, applause, and of course its share of head scratches.
But as curator and art critic Cid Reyes puts it, how one interprets an artwork is a reflection of one’s personality.
“It’s only you and the artwork,” Reyes said during the exhibit’s press preview. “The artist is no longer involved.”
Other curators include Patrick Flores, Joselina Cruz, Yael Buencamino and Dannie Alvarez.
In making sense of the vast collection of works for the inaugural staging of the MET Open, director Sandra Palomar-Quan praised the curators for sorting out the submissions from artists, art students and galleries for the exhibit.
She also mentioned the importance of academic institutions that nourish the arts including but not limited to the University of Santo Tomas, University of the Philippines, Philippine Women’s University and Far Eastern University.
Established in 1976, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila’s principal program involves the exposure of its audience to quality art exhibitions and the liberal exchange of ideas. And with the MET Open 2014, proceeds should benefit this program and the museum’s other programs.
The MET Open 2014 is being launched in cooperation with Rolls Royce, Del Monte Philippines Inc. and media partners. The Metropolitan Museum of Manila is located at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, Roxas Blvd., Manila. Museum hours are from 10 a.m – 5:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday. For more information, visit www.metmuseum.ph or call tel. 7087828.
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