Good parties need an equally good pregame, and Art Fair Philippines is no exception. Before the main festivities start, there are plenty of happenings that’ll get you in the mood for something creative. Check out this list of events to stop by—you may just find that elusive muse lurking around this side of town.
The Unconfined Cinema: An Outdoor Cinema Experience
Stargazing? You could say that. For this out-of-the-box cinematic experience, you can sit back and stare at the ceiling for your favorite local films. Curated by film composer Erwin Romulo, critic Philbert Dy and archivist Teddy Co, Art Fair’s shiny new Film section showcases the cheese that we unabashedly binge in time for Valentine’s Day. Catch “That Thing Called Tadhana,” “One More Chance,” “Never Not Love You” and more on Feb. 14 to 15 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens. Don’t worry about bothering anyone too—audio will be streamed through an app, while viewers can grab their own headphones to listen in. Silent disco: now made for film buffs.
Read more: Wyd on the 14th? Catch this free outdoor screening of classic Filipino romcoms
From the Archives: A Selection of Philippine Contemporary Art
If you’re skipping out on the exhibits, then you don’t have to miss all of the glory—just glance at a building and they’re right there. Projections are in fashion this year, as Art Fair’s iconic works throughout the years will be showcased for passersby to witness. Running throughout the evenings of Feb. 14 to 23, The Link’s facade will light up like it’s Christmas all over again.
Read more: A guide to all the workshops, exhibits and activities during 10 Days of Art
Transcendance
Nope, not a typo, we’re really ending it with “dance.” For those who feel like dabbling between yoga and interpretative moves, then you might want to drop by Kondwi, Poblacion on Feb. 14, 7 to 10 p.m—dancing shoes optional. Daloy Movement is kicking off Art Fair (and Valentine’s Day) with a bit of love and healing expressed through bodily motion. If you’ve got two left feet, don’t fret—beginners are welcome.
Read more: Art Fair 2020 has new things in store for you
Makati Live Buskers
During this week, we’re not leaving out music. Spot live performances around Makati from Feb. 14 to 23 at areas like Greenbelt-Dela Rosa Walkway, Paseo Underpass, Sedeno Underpass and Ayala North Exchange. Maybe you can belt out alongside the performers too—impromptu concert, anyone?
Read more: All the new (and the old) stuff to expect in this year’s Art Fair
Material Culture by Daniel Dela Cruz
With questions like “Are sneakers the new art?”, Daniel Dela Cruz’s Material Culture is delving deep into the tangible objects that define the generation and our individualities. Located at the Art Cube Gallery and happening on Feb. 8 to 29, check out the trends, the fads and bricks that cost $1000. Add a little “rage against the machinery” along the way too.
Artist in a Box
Exhibiting the sculptural paper work with a play on ads and pop culture images, resident Pablo Bermudez is Modeka’s spotlighted artist. Check out their official launch party on Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. With tunes from IGERAK and other guests, the artistic energy is pretty palpable.
Read more: Can’t Touch This: Art Fair etiquette 101
What’s Behind the Red Door?
What’s behind the red door? Beats us. Stop by at Run Rabbit Run’s pop-up gallery and you’ll probably figure it out. They’re featuring artwork from Chuck Gonzales, Corina Borromeo, Jappy Agoncillo and Luis Lopa starting Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. With your curiosity sated, you can also stay for the music and listen to live performances by YUZON, featuring Dan Baldonado and Tom Weil.
S2pid Luv
While you’re humming that Barbra Streisand-sampled Salbakuta track, consider hearing a line (or two) of swoon-worthy and downright heartbreaking love poetry from emerging poets Ralph Fonte, Regine Cabato and Alfonso Manalastas. All that will be shared on Feb. 22, 8 p.m. at Kondwi with a price tag of P300—and hey, it comes with a free drink too.
Art by Zaila Mae Urmeneta
