CEBU — The third edition of TOPS ArtFest is currently underway at the scenic TOPS mountain complex in Busay. Running from October 22 to 25, the event has transformed the popular destination into a sprawling creative hub. Over 300 artists from across the Philippines are participating in this massive celebration.
A Mountaintop Canvas Comes Alive
Under the theme “Building and Breaking Norms,” the festival extends far beyond traditional gallery setups. Visitors can explore diverse indoor and outdoor exhibitions while enjoying the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city skyline and coastline. It perfectly blends creative expression with natural scenery.
The vibrant Day 1 kicked off with an energetic ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially opening the doors to the highly anticipated exhibitions. This ongoing celebration highlights the power of arts and culture in fostering community bonds and uniting diverse creative minds from various regions.
Celebrating World-Class Filipino Talent
The lineup boasts an impressive array of established and emerging creatives, including installation art pioneer Junyee and National Artist Nunelucio Alvarado. Acclaimed artists like Ronald Ventura, Romulo Galicano, and Demi Padua are also showcasing their masterpieces. This gathering offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness diverse contemporary practices.
With galleries and creative collectives from all over the country converging in one space, the event offers an expansive scope. Visitors can encounter a fascinating mix of veteran practitioners and fresh talents, showcasing the continuous evolution of Philippine art and its rich cultural heritage.
Beyond the stunning canvases, the festival heavily emphasizes interactive experiences. Guests can watch live art take shape through on-site murals, graffiti sessions, and dynamic performance art. These activities allow audiences to engage directly with the creative process rather than just observing finished works.
Capturing Cebu’s Landscape Live
A major highlight today, October 23, is the "Perspective Play" plein-air painting competition. Artists are painting outdoors, interpreting the stunning mountain landscape in real time. The competition features separate student and professional categories with substantial cash prizes for the winners, pushing artistic boundaries.
Adding to the immersive atmosphere, the festival features insightful talks, interactive workshops, and artisanal merchandise booths. Local food pop-ups are also available, providing attendees with various dining options. These elements ensure that visitors remain engaged and energized throughout their entire visit to the mountain.
Accessible Art for the Community
Organizers have made the event highly accessible to encourage community participation. Admission to the festival is advertised as free and open to the public. For convenience, a dedicated shuttle service operates from the IT Park Transport Terminal in Lahug, offering round-trip rides with entrance fees.
Presented by the Cristina Lee Dino Foundation and the Sacred Heart School for Boys Batch ’85 Foundation, this ongoing festival highlights the vital role of public-private partnerships. It stands as a vibrant testament to Cebu’s thriving creative economy and its ability to draw cultural tourism.
