Marquis Events Place

July 3 – 5, 2026

The history of Philippine modern art is marked by artists whose works transformed the nation’s visual language. Their contributions extend beyond individual achievement. They established formal approaches, expanded artistic discourse, and shaped the direction of Philippine art across generations. Excelsior! brings together works by Juvenal Sansó, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Abdulmari Imao, Arturo Luz, Mario Parial, Justin Nuyda, Eduardo Castrillo, Angelito Antonio, Edwin Wilwayco, Norma Belleza, Raul Isidro, and Norberto Carating. Each developed a distinct artistic vocabulary that continues to inform the study and practice of Philippine art.

Although their practices differ in medium, subject, and aesthetic approach, these artists share a sustained commitment to form and artistic inquiry. Their works reflect careful attention to composition, material, color, and structure while engaging with themes that range from landscape and cultural identity to abstraction and the human condition. Rather than responding to passing movements, they established individual practices that have remained significant within the broader history of Philippine modernism. Their works demonstrate how artistic innovation emerges through discipline, continuity, and a sustained engagement with one’s medium.

The title Excelsior! reinforces this enduring pursuit of artistic excellence. The artists presented here did more than produce remarkable works; they helped define the intellectual and visual foundations of modern Philippine art. Their influence extends through museums, public collections, academic institutions, and the practices of succeeding generations. Their works continue to serve as important points of reference for artists, scholars, and audiences seeking to understand the evolution of Philippine visual culture.

This exhibition recognizes these artists as modern masters whose legacy remains active rather than complete. Their works continue to shape critical thought, artistic practice, and public appreciation of Philippine art. As new generations revisit their achievements, their ideas acquire renewed relevance, confirming that their contributions remain integral to the continuing narrative of Philippine art practice

“Excelsior!” featuring works by  Juvenal Sanso, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Abdulmari Imao, Arturo Luz, Mario Parial, Justin Nuyda, Eduardo Castrillo, Angelito Antonio, Edwin Wilwayco, Norma Belleza, Raul Isidro, and Norberto Carating will be on view at the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival (MoCAF) 2026, Booth 1, Marquis Events Place, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig from July 3 – 5, 2026. For inquiries, visit MoCAF’s Facebook (mocaf.net), Instagram (@mocafmanila), or email info@mocaf.net.