Starting art collectors who wish to get their hands on coveted pieces made by notable contemporary artists and seasoned art collectors who are looking to score a steal are all invited to the 14th edition of Art in the Park on March 15.
Everyone can enter for free at the public art fair, tagged as “Manila’s premier affordable art fair,” at Jaime Velasquez Park in Salcedo Village, Makati, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
And because it is an “affordable art fair,” organizer Liza Periquet said artworks for sale are priced no more than P50,000, inclusive of taxes. Some may go as low as P500.
Some of the notable pieces for sale are those by Richard Quebral. In addition, his colordul artwork, laced with humor and whimsy, graces Art in the Park’s postcards and prints.
Fifty-six exhibitors representing galleries, art collectives, independent art spaces, and student groups join this year’s fair, showcasing a wide range of artworks for a variety of taste—offering something for everybody.
Organizers said a portion of the sales will be donated to the Museum Foundation of the Philippines in support of their projects and programs for the National Museum of the Philippines and its network.
In addition to the public sale, visitors can check out Dex Fernandez’ (known as Garapata) Garapata Hatchery installation where those who are willing to be “infested” can participate in the art-making process and buy a merchandise such as bags or shirts printed with Garapata art.
“You can bring with you this quirky, transforming, expressive, omnipresent personality if you’re willing to be infested,” said Fernandez. “Just bring a shirt, a tote bag, or any material that has a flat surface for Garapata to latch on.”
Aside from customized art, visitors can watch artist Robert Alejandro draw live at the Avellana Art Gallery Booth from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Jackie Lozano, or ikaj as she is called in the art scene, meanwhile, will show her portraiture process live to visitors, who are also welcome to engage her in conversation about art.
To complete the “artful” affair, a jazz trio will be playing soulful music during the day while the fair’s special performer Hoochie Coochie Mikkie straps on his steel guitar in the evening.
Visitors spending a few hours, or perhaps the whole day, at the art affair need not go hungry, as a lineup of food concessionaires will offer meals and drinks—and cocktails, too.