It’s a celebration of love this February. For all things art, that is.

Makati becomes a paradise for art lovers as pockets of creativity are popping up across the city for Ayala Land’s “10 Days of Art.” Now on its 12th year, a curated selection of artists, creations and activities have been put on display, putting the spotlight on the country’s thriving art community. What sets it apart is that now, art is made more accessible to the everyday urban dweller by positioning the pieces in high-traffic areas — from Makati Central Business District (MCBD) all the way to Circuit Makati. Running until 23 February, it will be the perfect time to step out for a walk on the artistic side in the new hub for the best of Philippine contemporary art — Makati City.

The citywide exhibit is divided into three main clusters, traversing the Makati’s business and creative districts.

Ayala Triangle Gardens, with its thought-provoking installations, photographs and AR-driven paintings, make up Cluster 1. At the center of it is “Barrier Tape 2” by SpY Studio, which reimagines common barrier tape, draping thousands of red and white strips from tree branches to the ground. The tapes moving with the wind, creates a kinetic and auditory experience that changes with every person who views it. “Rewilding,” over at the Amphitheater, is a 3D-mapping exhibition curated by Jun Sabayton, bringing together the works of Bjorn Calleja, Ivan Despi, Pauline Despi, Jo Gregorio, Jeff Hazel Ombrete, Peter Daniel Palanas and Cherylee Sng. The visual projections invite viewers to explore a deep longing for connection, and their relationship with an every-changing world.

The photography cooperative Fotomoto expands Cluster 1, as it hosts a digital exhibit over to the Legazpi Underpass, and the Paseo-Villar Underpass. Commuters can revel at the one-of-a-kind “Walk With Me” exhibit, which revisits the milestones that shaped the people behind the collection, namely the TLYR Collective. These pieces incorporate augmented reality, inviting audiences to contemplate their own identities and experiences in the context of a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Ayala Triangle Gardens also plays host to various goings-on during this coming weekend’s Art Fair. On 22 February, Serbian hardcore punk and metal band Overdrive takes the stage in a free concert. Renowned photographer Tom Epperson goes behind the lens on 23 February, to snap photos of passersby at the weekly Car Free Sundays at Ayala Avenue. The photos will form part of the social media video series Real Faces, Real Places in Makati.

An introspective look into the power of the mind and the inner dialogue is the central theme to the art installations over in Cluster 2, which includes Ayala Center and the Makati Central Business District. Briccio Santos’ The Sentinels is the central piece in Legazpi Active Park, a reflection of the need for abstract amulets in a world of modern distractions. Greenbelt 3’s Sunken Park is home to yet another FotomotoPH collaboration, Camera Obscura, projecting stills of daily life, adding wonder to the mundane. A short walk to Glorietta is where one can find Kim Borja’s The Words You Speak Become the Home You Live By which puts focus on the power of language, and the silent struggles of mental health. Rounding out the collection is ESL Chen’s Time Explosion, displayed across One Ayala.

Completing the artistic clusters for 10 Days Of Art is Circuit Makati, which features two internationally renowned artists — JEFRË and Olivia d’Aboville — working around the theme Art Beyond Borders.

Walking the art fantastic

At the launch for Ayala Land’s 10 Days of Art held recently, art enthusiasts, collectors, curators and creative visionaries gathered at Ayala Triangle Gardens for an exclusive sneak preview of the outdoor exhibit. The guests were taken on an interactive Art Walk through the space, and meeting the artists behind these public art installations, such as Jopet Arias and Briccio Santos. Among the evening’s conversations were of their creative process and intention behind their work.

Everyone was also handed an Art Walk map, so they can complete the exhibition across the three clusters at their own pace. The map also works as a guide and a passport for them to participate in the event’s social media contest. What’s at stake? A very special sculpture by artist Briccio Santos. For contest mechanics, be sure to follow @10daysofartph on Instagram. Winners will be drawn on 1 March!

There is nothing like a good long walk to recharge the mind and the spirit. Add art to the mix, and it enriches the soul. 10 Days of Art, all across Makati, does just that. Head out with friends, or go at it solo, it will take you on an interesting adventure. No plane ride required!