Pablo Picasso, one of the most widely influential artists of the 20th century, once declared that "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." In the Philippines, the art scene has evolved into a dynamic creative space where both masters and modernists are engaged in a free flowing conversation to, dare we say, humanity's greater benefit. This is evidenced by the rising popularity of art fairs and exhibitions among art connoisseurs, enthusiasts, and art students alike.

The Modern and Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF) is among those who continues to showcase the country's expanding art scene. They put the spotlight on modern masters and cutting edge contemporary artists from both here and abroad - introducing art appreciation to new audiences while also building a community for up-and-coming artists.

This year's festival, which runs through this weekend until 5 July, is participated in by over 50 local and international galleries representing hundreds of visual artists, artisans, and other creatives. Local galleries like Ysobel Art Gallery, Fundacion Sansó, Art Underground, M Galerie, and White Walls Gallery, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with participating international galleries SHIKISAISHA GALLERY (Japan), Gallery Kogure (Japan), White Space Art Asia (Singapore), and Kate Contemporary Madrid (Spain). 

A highlight of MoCAF 2026 is a special exhibit lineup by some of Philippine arts' prominent painters and sculptors. Glass sculpture royalty R.A.M. - Ramon, Anna, and Michael Orlina - will present Horizons & Memories, while Jerica See revisits tradition in Returning To Sunday. Grafitti and comics-inspired art are at the heart of artwork by Jappy Agoncillo, and the collaborative effort between Imao and Tarantadong Kalbo. For the first time, digital artists and illustrators will be featured in a partnership with Art Caravan, affirming digital creativity as a valid and celebrated art form.

Young artists will also find their space in this year's festival via MoCaf Discoveries, long considered to be a platform to launch up-and-coming talent into the mainstream. According to festival director Coleen Wong,  “MoCAF has always been envisioned as a space that feels welcoming and safe, not just for artists and creatives, but also for the public. Whether you’re a collector, an artist, or someone simply curious about art, there will be something to see, experience, and take part in.”

Of course, art advocacy continues to be top-of-mind for festival organizers, as they push for greater inclusivity and access beyond the event itself, including support for tertiary education for art scholars under programs like ScholarSip by Fundacion Sansó.

As Henri Matisse said, "Creativity take courage," which makes art essential to the human existence. The Modern Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF) 2026's expended exhibition is a representation of this bravura, rooted in the festival’s founding belief: that contemporary art is not the exclusive domain of the few, but a living, growing conversation that belongs to everyone willing to take part in it. 

The showcase take place this weekend, from July 3 to 5, 2026, at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Tickets are priced at PhP 380, and PhP780 (with tote bag) and available through their ticketing partner, Klook. Students, PWDs, and senior citizens may avail of discounted rates.

For more information on MoCAF and upcoming MoCAF XP activities, visit their official website, or follow @mocafmanila on their socials.