Intriguing, Immersive, and Inspired: The ANNEXT unfolds a dual spectacle, weaving the forgotten tales of history an culture with simultaneous exhibitions

by Mika Reyes
Photos Antonio Miguel Padua
December 6, 2023

In the heart of Manila, where the echoes of history resonate through cobblestone streets, The ANNEXT is making waves with a groundbreaking initiative that transcends the boundaries of contemporary art. Two simultaneous exhibitions, each a unique journey through time and personal narratives, held at the venerable Shell Centennial Courtyard of the National Museum of Natural History. The setting alone is a testament to the vision of The ANNEXT—pushing the boundaries of artistic expression in the pursuit of innovation.

At the Pinnacle of History

The grandeur of the Shell Centennial Courtyard transformed into a haven of artistic expression, courtesy of THE ANNEXT. Nestled within the walls of the National Museum of Natural History, the venue itself becomes a canvas for the collision of contemporary concepts and historic surroundings.

(an)other by Marc Aran Reyes and Sentiment Debris by Sid Natividad

Marc Aran Reyes, the maestro of space and artifacts, unveils (an)other—an exploration of the vastness of time and personal history through architectural nuances. Meanwhile, Sid Natividad, the poetic water-bender of memorabilia, presents Sentiment Debris—an aquatic journey through the passages of time. It's a dance between the tangible and the intangible, the past and the present.

Elevating Art Appreciation and Understanding

In true ANNEXT fashion, this experimental art initiative is not just about putting pretty pictures on walls. It's a collaboration with the Department of Tourism to craft a symphony of sensory experiences that transcend traditional art exhibitions. From venue selection to marketing strategies, THE ANNEXT is raising the bar in the art tourism game.

The Double Helix of Reyes and Natividad

Inspired by the double helix architectural concept of the National Museum of Natural History, Reyes and Natividad are unraveling their creative DNA. Despite their individuality, these artists share a bond—both tethered to the essence of being Filipino. Their exhibitions, a rare and monumental pairing, explore the timeless questions: What defines our past, and how does it shape our present and future?

This isn't the first enchanting pas de deux between Art Underground and Ysobel Art, gracefully orchestrated under the discerning baton of Prim Paypon—now at the helm of The ANNEXT. Their creative collaboration has been a nuanced dance, a synchronized exploration of artistic expression that predates the avant-garde spectacle currently poised to unfold. Prior chapters of this artistic saga laid the groundwork for what promises to be a crescendo of innovation and cultural significance with The ANNEXT. The stage has been set, and this seasoned trio of artistic visionaries is ready to weave another narrative tapestry that transcends boundaries and redefines the realm of contemporary art.

*Sid Natividad, Maquette III, 72x60, oil on canvas*

A Passage Through Time

Reyes' (an)other delves into the vastness of space, a visual journey through time, using artifacts as vessels of history. On the flip side, Natividad's Sentiment Debris immerses you in the fluidity of water, embodying the lyrical movements of personal histories with memorabilia as the poetic storytellers.

*Marc Aran Reyes, Weight of (an)other, 48 x 36 in*

Mark your calendars for December 6-10, 2023, and let THE ANNEXT be your guide into the future of art. This is an experience, a celebration of Filipino creativity that transcends boundaries and challenges perceptions. The National Museum of has now become a contemporary art platform. Embrace the fusion of the past, present, and future—because, THE ANNEXT is where the avant-garde meets the extraordinary.

A Glimpse Into the ANNEXT's Simultaneous Exhibitions