Thy Art Mediums
‘Material Instincts’ is now on view at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.
Words Rica Mae Labbao
Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Museum of Manila
February 25, 2026
In the rules of painting, materials play a directional role. They define. They magnify. They redirect.
During the ongoing manifestation of contemporary painting around the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, a spotlight also focused on materials and the way processes happen on February 10 as ‘Material Instincts’ officially opened.
Material Instincts is a complementary exhibition to Painting Rules. Curated by Bambina Olivares, the showcase features works by Olivia d'Aboville, Marionne Contreras, Monica Delgado, and Michelle Pérez, expanding the conversation on painting with an emphasis on the skillful manipulation of mediums.
Olivia d'Aboville plays with textile, guide by her artistic vision rooted in unconventional approaches. Marionne Contreras, on the other hand, discovers power in tactile storytelling through the use of felt and yarn.
Meanwhile, Monica Delgado and Michelle Pérez engage with the artistic process through paint. Monica’s deft manipulation of acrylic paint creates a perceptive dimension with her works that often tricks the viewers’ eyes, while Michelle’s immersive paintings offer audiences a whimsical take on art without relying on familiar figures.
As materials take centerstage, yarn, felt, textile, and paint are transformed into new forms that create art beyond rules. This exhibit echoes the spirit of Zimmerman’s Painting Rules—that art is free-flowing, boundless, and shapeless—as the medium itself can dictate its form.
On its official launch on February 10, esteemed guests in attendance included Sen. Mar Roxas, Veana Fores, Bledes Fores, Oye Fores, Cultural Attaché Spanish Embassy Alvaro Garcia, Lizzie Zobel, Libet Virata, Jaime Ponce de Leon, Mark Wilson, Cara Wilson, Inigo Elizalde, Marilen Elizalde, Santi Elizalde, Ana Delgado, Marco Santos, Zelda Kienle, Manny Samson, David Guerrero, Angel Guerrero, Robert Magsaysay Ho, Yuan & Yanna Ongpin, Apa Ongpin, Pam Lopez, Tina Cuevas, Derek Flores, and Trickie Lopa.
Material Instincts is open for public viewing until April 30, 2026, at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.
