Art has a unique way of bringing communities together, and this July, residents in Rizal and nearby cities have the chance to experience one of the country's largest art initiatives without stepping into a traditional gallery. Through Art For Everyone 2026, SM Supermalls is transforming public spaces into vibrant art destinations, featuring more than 1,000 artworks created by Filipino artists.
Held simultaneously at SM City Masinag and SM City San Mateo, the exhibitions celebrate artistic diversity while giving emerging, student, and established artists a platform to connect with a wider audience.
Why is Art For Everyone significant?
Art For Everyone is a nationwide initiative by SM Supermalls that aims to make visual art more accessible to the public. Instead of limiting exhibitions to museums or private galleries, the program brings artworks into shopping malls, allowing families, students, and casual visitors to discover local talent during their everyday activities.
This approach helps artists reach new audiences while encouraging greater appreciation for Philippine art and culture.
What can visitors expect at SM City San Mateo?
From July 17 to 31, SM City San Mateo, in partnership with the San Mateo Tourism Office, is showcasing more than 500 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted pieces.
Featured artists include:
- Agi Pagkatipunan
- Jik Villanueva
- Jenevic Cariño
- Aia Halili
- Marie Clare
Beyond traditional paintings, visitors can also explore hand-painted fabrics, sculptures, and functional wooden artworks that highlight the creativity of local artists.
The exhibit officially opened with San Mateo Municipal Administrator Henry Desiderio, accompanied by a cultural performance from the PLMAR Dance Troupe, adding a community-focused celebration to the event.
What makes the SM City Masinag exhibit unique?
Running from July 13 to 26, the SM City Masinag exhibit features 522 artworks created by 68 artists from Rizal, Marikina, Quezon City, and neighboring communities.
Organized in partnership with Obra Art School, the exhibition highlights a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works.
The opening ceremony was attended by Antipolo City Vice Mayor Randy Puno, Rizal Tourism Head Dr. Corazon Laserna, and SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Mall Operations Ronald Allan Brosas.
Visitors can also watch live art demonstrations, offering a closer look at the creative process behind the finished works.
More than an exhibit: Supporting local creative industries
Events like Art For Everyone play a broader role in strengthening the Philippines' creative economy.
By providing accessible venues where artists can exhibit and sell their work, initiatives like this help create opportunities for both emerging and established creatives. They also encourage public appreciation for original Filipino art, which contributes to the growth of local cultural industries.
For buyers, purchasing artwork directly from local artists not only supports individual creators but also helps sustain the country's growing creative sector.
Public art exhibitions have become increasingly important as communities look for more inclusive cultural experiences. Hosting exhibits in malls makes art accessible to people who may not regularly visit museums or galleries, helping broaden audiences and inspire future artists.
Interactive activities and live demonstrations further encourage visitors to engage with art rather than simply observe it, creating meaningful experiences for families and young audiences.
Together, SM City Masinag and SM City San Mateo are showcasing more than 1,000 artworks spanning paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and functional art—demonstrating the richness of Filipino creativity.
As Art For Everyone 2026 continues across SM Supermalls nationwide, the initiative reinforces the growing role of public spaces in promoting culture, supporting local artists, and making art more accessible to everyday Filipinos.
Whether you're an art collector, a first-time buyer, or simply looking for creative inspiration, these exhibits offer an opportunity to experience Philippine artistry up close while supporting the country's vibrant creative community.