Look for Filipino heroes at Makati's underpasses on your way to work

MANILA, Philippines - Urban pedestrians will soon enjoy a brighter journey to work.

The first-ever underpass art gallery comes alive at the Makati Central Business District with two exhibits: “Looking for Juan” at the Legazpi Underpass and “Everyday Filipino Heroes” at the Sedeno Underpass. Coinciding with the celebration of Independence Day, the project aims to make art more accessible to the public and to liven up the pedestrian experience.

The Legazpi Underpass crosses Ayala Avenue from Legazpi Village (near Locsin Building) to Ayala Triangle, while the Sedeno Underpass crosses Paseo de Roxas from Sedeno Street to Ayala Triangle.

Ayala Land and Alveo, in collaboration with Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) and Makati Commercial Estate Association, will line the underpass walls with selected artwork from CANVAS’ previous exhibitions (“Looking for Juan” – April 2009, Cultural Center of the Philippines and “Everyday Filipino Heroes” – May 2010, UP Vargas Museum).

Curated by Marika Constantino, the exhibit will feature works by Bencab, Elmer Borlongan, Sajid Imao, Plet Bolipata and other prominent artists. “Looking for Juan” is a collection that attempts to answer what a Filipino is, while “Everyday Filipino Heroes” portrays heroes like teachers, doctors, etc. we encounter on a daily basis.

The project will also promote education and sustainability, as children’s books published by CANVAS will be donated to Makati public schools, while tarpaulins used at the exhibit will be recycled into art tote bags. A non-profit organization that trains women’s communities in Antipolo and Laguna will spearhead the initiative to convert the tarps into bags.

The underpass art exhibit is just one of the events under the “I He(art) Makati. I Heart the Philippines. I Heart Being Free” banner. At the adjacent Ayala Triangle Gardens, the country’s first living flag will be displayed with close to 4,000 flowering plants. On June 19, a series of photography contests featuring Makati will be held at the Triangle Gardens for kids, teens, adults and professional shutterbugs.

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For more information, visit www.iheartmakati.com or inquiries, email atg@ayalaland.com.ph or call 841-5812.