Here’s a guide to the metro’s arts and culture hub

October is Museums & Galleries Month and there’s no better way to mark that than to explore and discover all the best spots at one of the city’s arts and culture hubs Shangri-La Plaza.

Start an art hop inspired by Shang at the top – that’s Level 6 of the mall’s East Wing with Galerie Stephanie. Known for being one of the leading artist-centered galleries in the Philippines, their latest home is a collaborative space with local art dealer and art digest Cartellino. With a capacity for four exhibition rooms, and a room dedicated to Cartellino itself (it’s a gallery within a gallery!), the art space is looking forward to showcasing more established and up-and-coming artists from around the world.

Next, walk over to the Main Wing of Level 6 for The Artologist, which features some of the brightest art stars on the scene. Considered the home of emerging and mid-career contemporary artists, the gallery just wrapped up the successful solo exhibition of printmaking master Pandy Aviado. They also featured abstract artists Adam Nacianceno and Chai Soo in recent shows earlier this year. If the exhibits happen to get your creative juices flowing, ask about their art workshops for all ages and book a class for yourself.

Make your way down to Level 4 for a haven of galleries and charming vintage finds. Shang’s Art Plaza houses the Art Circle Gallery which has dedicated itself to promoting and developing Philippine visual arts by inspiring our sense of national pride with pieces from Filipino masters like Bencab and contemporary names like Manuel Baldemor. Art Venue, also by Art Circle, showcases highly technical works, including Raul Patindol’s intricate still life of lace fans and local flora, and Henry Ordoña’s vivid local landscapes.

Contemporary art fans should check out Artistree Fine Art and The New Gallery, curating works from the 1980s to the present day. With mixed media works by the renowned Impy Pilapil, geometric compositions from Paulina Luz Sotto, and vibrant floral pieces by Rhea Dela Rosa, these galleries highlight modern and enduring techniques.

Gallerie Raphael treats visitors to everything from the spirited Japanese-inspired pieces of Vincent del Pio to the bold abstract expressions of Karina Baluyut; while Galeria Andres presents a sensory experience of fine art, sculptures, and antiques from the country’s finest including acclaimed sculptor Eduardo Castrillo, National Artists Anastacio Caedo, and Jose Joya.

Perfect for art collectors, Gallery 928’s auctions are a treasure trove where one can obtain pieces by modernist legend Malang and National Artist Cesar Legaspi. They also offer art lessons for those looking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of art.

Summit Art Gallery is a great stop to browse framed works, including paintings that look great in any art lover’s home. There’s also Gallery BiG, which is known for specializing in large-scale works of art, including pieces created by masters such as Federico Aguilar-Alcuaz, Fernando Amorsolo, and Ang Kiukok.

With Shangri-La Plaza’s art spaces and diverse range of works and line-up of artists, it’s easy to make art appreciation a year-round passion.

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.