MoCAF wants to build a different art festival
Four years in, MoCAF (the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival) seems determined to chart its own path among the numerous art fairs in our midst. And that involves a ground-up approach that not only skews towards new artists, but focuses on artisans, craftspeople, and artist-created merch.
Now taking the helm as new festival director, Coleen Wong says: “Since its inception, MoCAF has challenged itself to introduce something new every year, making MoCAF bigger in reach and more inclusive in approach—staying true to a principle we strongly started with.”
Taking place on July 11-13 at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, MoCAF 2025 will feature over 50 exhibitors representing over 200 artists and nearly 40 independent artisans, including an increasing number of international galleries.
But what’s interesting is how they take things to the streets: MoCAF XP, the festival’s community arm, brings art into everyday life through interactive and approachable programming. Meanwhile, MoCAF partner The Astbury Club held the MoCAF XP Art Bazaar on June 28, featuring young creatives, with a casting and mold-making workshop the same day.
We heard from Carlo Tineda of Art House, which continues its “Lakbay” platform to nurture Filipino artists living abroad by showcasing their work here in local venues; Ma. Roma Agsunod, whose Common Room platform teaches people how to “upcycle” discarded materials into art; Tala Singson of inclusive Space Encounters Gallery; and Carlomar Daoana, who introduced his online Arcadia Gallery.
This year features a standout lineup of artisan brands, including Manila Middle Ground’s curated art and design goods; Runit Decks’ collectible cards and puzzles; Tropik Beatnik’s handmade accessories; Wabi Sabi’s handcrafted ceramics; Miel Maker of Things’ playful fashion pieces; Clockwork Vintage’s rare timepieces; and Anthill’s sustainable, community-rooted woven wearables.
Part of its mission, says Wong, “is to not make art intimidating, and to educate new art audiences.” This has led to a ground-level approach, focusing on patron lifestyles, and also pointing artists towards the value of merchandising their own ideas. “Yes, I would say that creativity is everything that you do,” including selling stickers, T-shirts, and even playing cards, notes Wong. Each brand brings a distinct voice and character to the festival’s diverse lineup, highlighting the depth and creativity of local makers.
On the lifestyle front, MoCAF continues to bridge art and design through collaborations with local brands. Limited-edition prints by Bad Student, exclusive merchandise with DBTK (Don’t Blame the Kids), and a co-created line with Lumi Candles add special texture to the festival.
MoCAF also commits to community and inclusivity, supporting two initiatives this year: Fundacion Sansó’s ScholarSIP, which helps fund the education of young art students through scholarships, and the Mbrace Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Filipino children with disabilities and chronic illnesses. “Through these partnerships, we aim to make art not only accessible, but also impactful where it’s needed most,” Wong said.
Which is not to say MoCAF doesn’t welcome established or legacy artists. There’s Toym Imao, whose large-scale sculpture from the 14th Gwangju Biennale will be shown in the Philippines for the first time; a multigenerational showcase by the Orlina family, highlighting Ramon Orlina’s glass art legacy; and a heartfelt tribute to the late artist Juvenal Sanso, showcased by Fundacion Sansó’s Ricky Francisco.
Expect solo shows by SAIS, Dennis Bato & Pinky Ibarra Urmaza, AR Manalo, Bryan Teves, Katrina Cuenca, Jaspher Penuliar and Juanito Torres as well.
Despite a “squishy” art market at the moment, one of MoCAF’s pillars is to offer an entry level for all art collectors, especially through MoCAF Discoveries, featuring 10 artists from the 2024 roster and introducing 22 emerging talents to watch.
“There’s a lot of younger levels to the market as well, and the Discoveries platform focuses on affordable art. We’ve noticed a lot of younger collectors are interested, and they would need to start somewhere.”