MoCAF Celebrates the Uncovering of Discoveries

Emerging artists Crazy Vanny, DanaMatrix, and Cel Ramos retraced their paths that first stirred their creative spirits.

Words Bridgette Yutuc
Photos courtesy of Mika Tadena and Li Almazora
July 13, 2025

The art world is often cloaked in mystery seen from the outside as an enigmatic universe. For many, it is often perceived with exclusivity and elitism, obscured by jargon and a language that feels out of reach. 

But at its core, an art gallery goes far beyond exhibitions. It's about being a steward and melting pot of creativity—nurturing the creative spirit, championing visual storytellers, and transforming imagination into impact. 

Behind the sterile white walls is sheer effort carefully orchestrated to propel an artist's career forward locally and internationally, taking on an ambitious and multifaceted mission. 

By spotlighting galleries that invest in emerging voices, MoCAF (Modern and Contemporary Art Festival) recognizes that artistic growth is never a solo act. It's sparked through connections, kindled by dialogue, and sustained by a community that believes in the long game.

Nurturing galleries

At just 21, visual artist Crazy Vanny is already carving out a space of his own. But his ascent as an emerging artist didn’t begin with a solo studio or sold-out shows. It began with a gallery that believed in him before he fully believed in himself: Art Toys PH.

“Art Toys PH was the first gallery to recognize my talent, and even when I was just a rookie in the art scene, they never hesitated to believe in what I could do. They became my mentors and taught me a lot about the scene. Support me and encourage me to keep growing as an artist.”

Crazy Vanny values how the gallery lets him rely on unfettered creativity in the pursuit of creative vision. “For me, the gallery is my sanctuary. It’s a space where I can create art freely, without limitations. Being in that environment excites me and pushes me to explore what more I am capable of,” he said. 

Galleries as gateways

For DanaMatrix, a visual artist participating in this year’s MoCAF Discoveries lineup, the moment she felt truly seen through 360 Creatives Gallery wasn’t grand or expected. It arrived abruptly in a passing question about a complimentary Art+ magazine.

In fact, she hadn’t even had a glimpse when her artwork made its faint debut at the magazine before she could witness it firsthand.

“For me, I actually got a start with Ms. Valerie Teng (from 360 Creatives), who believed in my skills and gave me the opportunities to showcase my paintings in different shows, different festivals.” 

In the often intimidating world of contemporary art where recognition can feel elusive, galleries like 360 Creatives are like a compass in an unpredictable landscape. Through thoughtful curation, mentorship, and firm belief, these galleries become instrumental for artists. 

Galleries as soil for growth

"There was a time when we were throwing [ideas] back and forth. It was like, ‘I don’t think this is working with the visual narrative of your artwork,” Cel Ramos of VeryGood Gallery recalls a moment of creative friction. 

That exchange, honest and unfiltered, is one of the most overlooked gifts of being part of a gallery ecosystem: connection. 

Galleries like VeryGood Gallery become crucibles for collaboration where artists challenge each other and engage in dialogues that provoke artistic growth, discovering new paths—ones the artist may not have reached alone.

When asked what advice they’d give to aspiring artists, Crazy Vanny, DanaMatrix, and Cel Ramos didn’t propose complex formulas for success. Instead, they echoed oddly similar sentiments. It was almost uncanny, three different artists, three lives, three paths, but one shared truth. 

“Just keep showing up,” said Crazy Vanny. “Just go for it,” said DanaMatrix. “Don't be afraid to try. Just do it.” Cel Ramos answered.