Where Home is Made Through Art

Where creating art and supporting artists are prioritized, Maker’s Festa makes it all worth it. 

Words Rica Mae Labbao
Photos courtesy of Maker’s Festa
September 1, 2026

Going back to school is much like tracing your way back home. 

To many, the University of the Philippines has been the cradle of warmth to pursue an advocacy greater than self, one that nurtures and protects. 

For the fourth year of Maker’s Festa last August 15 to 16, the theme is all about “coming back home to UP.” 

Inspired by the grounding roots of the organizers’ artistic experience and understanding what it truly feels to be an artist in the country, the event continuously grows to be a fair for the local creative hands.

Where it took shape

In an exclusive interview with Art+ Magazine, Maker’s Festa founder and director Lara Non shared the core inspiration of the bazaar and where it all began. According to her, the journey started with the advocacy to make a fair that truly empowers the artists. 

“The inspiration behind Maker’s Festa is really about the artists. We really wanted to celebrate and give that platform for artists to showcase their local talent. Coming from the experience as an artist myself, I know how we want to evolve the space for everyone,” she mentioned.

From its first iteration in the UP vicinity that set the ground for their activities, the festa returned after two years with an objective to connect more with its attendees and weave the connection of artists and audiences closer. 

Also falling in time for the start of the new academic year, the back to school theme accurately resonates, “going back to our roots, meaning that we understand why we’re here and why we’re doing this. And kind of grounds us with everything that we do.”

Where intentions are clear

More than an event, Maker’s Festa is also a gathering that speaks to its community—a brand that is intentional with its core. 

“It’s always an artist-first community for us,” Lara reiterated. “Our purpose is to really give back to the artists and inspire them to continue with what they've been working on. It's not just a hobby but a passion for them.”

It is always important for the team to make sure the overall welfare and experience of the makers. So with all the partnerships and brand collaborations, it is a must to ensure that they are intentional with their cause.

As Maker’s Festa Marketing Head Eyddie Dy says, “our core intention is really for the artists. We always put the artists first. When it comes to partnering with brands, we make sure that as much as possible, the benefits would go to the artists. That's always our goal as Maker's Festa.”

Through their three main highlights—Makers Moments, Letters to Makers, and Maker’s Kit—they ensure a well-loved space for artists and a community that thrives through mutual collaboration. 

“And that's really important for us. To give back to the community, to make sure the artists are well taken care of.”