An art fair in Quezon City is set to hold its biggest event in its fourth year, bringing together artists and creative groups from diverse disciplines.
Glenda Carlota, deputy director of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), said this year’s Gateway Art Fair will also showcase other art forms, with exhibits spread across Gateway Malls 1 and 2 in Araneta City from October 2 to 5.
“What makes Gateway Art Fair 2025 different is that we are integrating other art components aside from visual arts,” Carlota said.
“We have films, we have art installations all over Araneta City, and then we have demos, we have talks, we have performances by PETA (Philippine Educational Theater Association), and we have music, symphonic band. It’s an altogether art festival na siya,” she added.
Meanwhile, a total of 36 curated exhibits from emerging and mid-career artists will be showcased at the fair, which has drawn participation from 275 artists across various regions in the country.
Gari Apolonio, museum curator at Gateway Gallery, noted that regional artists continue to join art fairs in the capital, as Metro Manila remains a key “art market” that helps expand their exposure.
The Gateway Art Fair, now the biggest in Quezon City, has also received support from the local government unit (LGU). According to Carlota, this support is a gesture of gratitude from the LGU for the fair’s contributions to the community.
“I think it was more of an appreciation of what Gateway Art Fair can do to the Quezon City community,” she said, while mentioning that Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte opened the art fair last year.
“I think they feel proud that we represent the artists of Quezon City,” Apolonio added.
What to expect
With the theme “Live Your Art,” the fair aims to build a community for both artists and art enthusiasts.
“We’re creating a space for all the artists to come. And those naman who love art to be involved in that community,” Carlota said.
“It’s like a party place full of artworks. The vibe is very young and energetic,” Apolonio added.
For him, organizing an art fair makes art more accessible to the public, giving people a chance to find inspiration through it.
“Because with all the problems that we have right now, sometimes you lose hope. But when you see art, sometimes it makes you feel hopeful and relaxed and inspired,” the museum curator said.
Aside from viewing the displayed artworks, visitors can purchase pieces at affordable prices and join various free activities.
They can also enjoy the following performances on these dates:
- Quezon City Symphonic Band on October 2
- PETA performances on October 3 and 4
- Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Cultural Cache screenings from October 2 to 5
Demonstrations and talks on printmaking, book sculpture, coffee art, plein air painting, and photography will take place from October 3 to 5.
The annual art fair also marks the 10th anniversary of Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta City.
Managed by the JAAF, the social development arm of the Araneta Group, the foundation also offers various art and culture programs aimed at enriching the community’s appreciation for the arts.
