MoCAF, the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival, pulls out all the stops in its third year, but not without losing sight of its role as an inclusive and community-centered platform. 

It was first envisioned with a goal of showcasing the country’s evolving art scene, educating new audiences and piquing the interest of established aficionados. “MoCAF was the first to welcome back local art lovers after a prolonged lockdown with the very first face-to-face presentation of artworks by both masters and new artists alike”, shared Festival Chairperson Ricky Francisco. He further states, “Our pioneering MoCAF Discoveries gave a critical platform for young artists, many of whom like Carla Gamalinda, Gelo Montiero, Wendel Candawan, RAFA, Seth Corda, Ian Inoy, among others now have flourishing careers.” 

In 2023, MoCAF continued with the inclusive format but with the addition of the innovative community-oriented MoCAF XP. The diverse art-related experiences brought MoCAF closer to a wider and younger audience through the help of small local enterprises and establishments. It further pushed the limits of MoCAF Discoveries with a curated exhibition for several of the emerging artists to further nurture their craft. Others from the initial MoCAF Discoveries were already invited by some of the participating galleries to be part of their program. 

Now in its third year, MoCAF is geared to execute a much bigger and impactful festival this July 5 to 7, 2024, introducing new programs at the heart of bustling lifestyle hub Bonifacio Global City. The entirety of the four-story Marquis Events 

Place is set to house a rich selection of both artisans and galleries. With a grander space, MoCAF is empowered to offer more with 47 galleries in total, relevant MoCAF Dialogues, and the introduction of the MoCAF XTN among others.

The Main Ballroom will house 24 local and 7 foreign galleries. Adding to that, visitors will appreciate an extensive lineup of 11 Special Exhibitions, which includes event-exclusive pieces by seasoned creatives Katrina Cuenca and Michael Cacnio to name a few, as well as curated shows by the Department of Tourism. MoCAF’s pioneering MoCAF Discoveries will also see 14 of its 2023 roster coming back this year, as well as welcoming 28 new artists under its wing. 

MoCAF 2024 will also introduce MoCAF XTN, a new format to “extend” the event's reach and offerings, with the understanding that supporting start-ups foster diversity. This is consistent with the mission of extending the venue to young, potentially game changing galleries, artisanal shops, and artists’ groups. This move shines a light on neophyte galleries like M Gallery and non-traditional art forms through the Artisans section which will showcase art-inspired merchandise: clothing, books, pottery, and other forms. The latter will include the prized collection of Imao Studios, the local and international prints of Spruce Gallery, and textile paintings courtesy of clothing brand RIOtaso. In total, MoCAF XTN will accommodate an additional 13 galleries and collectives to the event. To further enhance the festival goers' experience, a variety of food concessionaires will now be available at the new venue. All these, along with the new Activations expected to make the festival more exciting. Additionally, five insightful panel discussions through MoCAF Dialogues will touch on topics such as plagiarism, art conservation, and other relevant art issues. 

Already ongoing, art-related experiences through MoCAF XP are already scheduled. The first was a painting workshop with VeryGood Gallery in collaboration with Art Caravan. More are scheduled in the weekends leading to MoCAF proper. 

“It’s always been a goal of MoCAF to reach out to the community,” Festival Director Coleen Wong shares. Despite upping the ante each year, she notes, “I think what MoCAF is also known for is how relaxed it is for the festival goers; it doesn’t pressure you to roam around. We want festival goers to simply enjoy and breathe in the art experience.” 

In partnership with the Ascott BGC, MoCAF 2024 unveiled its plans through a media launch that provided a glimpse into this year's festivities. Ascott BGC’s Suite 3001 at the 30th floor was transformed into a mini art gallery that offered a glimpse of the upcoming festival. The living room space displayed some of the highlights of this year’s MoCAF Discoveries, with the master’s bedroom exhibiting a piece from Special Exhibitions artist RV Basco, as well as a few artists under the group show of VeryGood Gallery. 

Attendees can secure their tickets at www.mocaf.net. Tickets are priced at only PHP 300. Students, PWDs, and Senior Citizens could also avail these at a discounted price. 

MoCAF 2024 is partnered with the Department of Tourism, Bonifacio Global City, City of Taguig, Fort Bonifacio Development Foundation, Art Caravan, Marquis Events Place, Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila, RLC Residences, Likha Residences, and Aurelia Residences as its sponsors. 

With all things set, new and established art collectors and spectators can now look forward to a more dynamic art festival this July at MoCAF 2024. 

MoCAF will take place July 5 - 7, 2024 at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For more information on MoCAF and the upcoming activities MoCAF XP, visit www.mocaf.net. Follow @mocafmanila on Instagram and like Mocaf.net on Facebook for updates.