Pacita Abad: A Million Things To Say exhibition
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Museum of Contemporary Art and Design MCAD

4.2
·109 reviews·Manila, Philippines

A free contemporary art gallery in Manila showcasing innovative local and international modern art, design, and avant-garde pieces.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed & Sat afternoons

Conceptual art performances

CrowdMedium
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Pacita Abad: A Million Things To Say exhibition

Museum of Contemporary Art and Design MCAD

Best Time

Wed & Sat afternoons

Conceptual art performances

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free contemporary art gallery in Manila showcasing innovative local and international modern art, design, and avant-garde pieces.

4.2
(109 reviews)

"Easily the best museum visit we’ve had in the Philippines so far. Highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy world-class contemporary art without an entry fee. A fantastic budget-friendly option for art enthusiasts.

🎒 Bag Check Required

Leave larger bags or backpacks at your hotel; only small purses are typically allowed inside.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.2 · 109 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maria Taniguchi: Body of Work

Maria Taniguchi: Body of Work

Main Gallery

Explore the iconic Brick Paintings and other works by this celebrated Filipino artist. A must-see survey of her evolving artistic expression.

Heidi Bucher: and pull yesterday into today

Heidi Bucher: and pull yesterday into today

Third Floor Gallery

Discover the conceptual art and fashion-inspired pieces by Swiss artist Heidi Bucher, a unique intersection of art and textiles.

30 Lives Gaming Exhibition

30 Lives Gaming Exhibition

MCAD Commons

Delve into the world of gaming art, exploring themes of dystopia, strategy, and skill through diverse contemporary works.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Plan Your Visit

Enjoy free admission to MCAD, a gem for contemporary art lovers. Check their schedule for special exhibits and workshops, as these can be time-sensitive and popular. Arrive early to fully immerse yourself in the art without the rush.

Bag Policy & Accessibility

Note that larger bags and backpacks may not be permitted inside for security. Smaller purses are generally allowed. The museum is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to confirm specific needs beforehand.

Best Times

When
Wed & Sat afternoons
Why
Conceptual art performances
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#stitch with @amelia x just something you shluld check out #contemporaryart #modernart #artgallery #arthistory #sculpture #greenscreen #fyp
@dantehotsauce
584.1K likes • 4.6M views

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy world-class contemporary art without an entry fee. A fantastic budget-friendly option for art enthusiasts. Reddit

🎒 Bag Check Required

Leave larger bags or backpacks at your hotel; only small purses are typically allowed inside. Reddit

Artist - Patty Chang / Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) Manila. Philippines 2023 #mcad #art #design #philippines #artgallery
elenaskutova
24 likes • 1.3K views
lyf Malate Manila attended the Heidi Bucher International Exhibit and Benilde Open Design + Art Exhibit in support of the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design and the College of St. Benilde 😊 The Heidi Bucher exhibit is open for public viewing until August 18 with conceptual art performance every Wednesday and Saturday! Benilde Open is open until June 30th💚 #lyf #lyfmalatemanila #livelyfhere #l...
lyf.malatemanila
0 likes • 1.5K views

💬 Ask the Guides

Museum staff are very accommodating and happy to explain the art, enriching your understanding. Reddit

📅 Check Exhibit Schedules

Special exhibits and performances, like those by Heidi Bucher, have specific end dates and times. Instagram

A definite must see show at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) Manila is ‘Heidi Bucher: and pull yesterday into today’. A beautiful selection from the Swiss artist Heidi Bucher’s works, on the third & final leg of its Asian tour, after Korea and China. Trained as a dressmaker, she was fascinated by the intersection between art and fashion. The works are sublime and very moving. I was...
miguelific
125 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy world-class contemporary art without an entry fee. A fantastic budget-friendly option for art enthusiasts. Reddit

🎒 Bag Check Required

Leave larger bags or backpacks at your hotel; only small purses are typically allowed inside. Reddit

💬 Ask the Guides

Museum staff are very accommodating and happy to explain the art, enriching your understanding. Reddit

📅 Check Exhibit Schedules

Special exhibits and performances, like those by Heidi Bucher, have specific end dates and times. Instagram

📸 Photography Allowed

Capture the art, but be mindful of any specific restrictions for certain exhibits. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.2
(109 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise MCAD for its free admission and the quality of its contemporary art exhibitions, particularly those featuring Filipino artists. The staff are frequently commended for their helpfulness and knowledge, significantly enhancing the visitor experience. While generally positive, some note the strict bag policy as a minor inconvenience.

"This is a contemporary art gallery located actually behind the Art and Design Campus. Admission is free and there are definitely some interesting works by local artists. Worth a visit!"

Itay Manor

"This exhibition is until March I believe.

Showcasing both simplicity and complexity, the art of Maria Taniguchi in Museum of Contemporary Arts and Design was worth a visit.

The people in the exhibit were accommodating, as they answer our queries and explain what the art was all about.

What I like about this entire exhibit was how it would make you think, along with being amazed of how the artist expresses themselves. The pieces that I loved the most were the silver coins and the laser-etched plywoods. One of the guides pointed out the silver coins that we didn’t notice before. They explained the irony between these two, how one gives meaning to the materials they possess, along with permanency and loss."

Aenghel Marie Bonoan

"The Museum of Contemporary Art and Design in Manila exceeded all expectations. The staff were incredibly accommodating and knowledgeable, generously taking the time to explain the works on display. I especially appreciated the focus on contemporary Filipino artists—an inspiring and educational experience. Easily the best museum visit we’ve had in the Philippines so far. Highly recommended for art lovers and curious minds alike."

Brittany Amanda Alvine

What People Like

Free admission
Quality contemporary art
Accommodating staff

What People Dislike

Strict bag policy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

MCAD is located behind the College of Saint Benilde's Design and Arts Campus. You can reach it via public transportation, with jeepneys and taxis being common options in the area. It's a well-known spot for art lovers in Manila. Reddit

Yes, MCAD is accessible via various public transport routes that serve the Malate district. It's advisable to use navigation apps for the most current routes. Instagram

Using GPS on your smartphone is highly recommended. Look for the College of Saint Benilde's Design and Arts Campus, as MCAD is situated behind it. TikTok

While MCAD itself might have limited parking, the surrounding areas and the College of Saint Benilde campus may offer parking options. It's best to check for available parking near the campus. Reddit

Yes, MCAD is centrally located in Malate, making it relatively easy to access from various parts of Manila, especially during off-peak hours. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) Manila is completely free, making it an accessible cultural destination for everyone. Reddit

MCAD's opening hours can vary depending on current exhibitions and events. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

Since admission is free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special events or guided tours, it's advisable to inquire about registration. Reddit

MCAD is open to all ages. However, some contemporary art pieces might be more suited for mature audiences, and parental guidance is recommended for younger visitors. TikTok

Typically, re-entry policies depend on the museum's specific rules. It's best to confirm with the staff at the entrance if you plan to leave and return. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

MCAD showcases contemporary art, including modern art, design, sculptures, and avant-garde pieces, often featuring local Filipino artists and international collaborations. TikTokInstagram

Yes, museum staff are often available to provide insights and explanations about the artworks. They are known for being accommodating and knowledgeable. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's important to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or artworks. TikTok

MCAD Commons is an exhibition program that extends the museum's activities beyond the main gallery, reaching a wider audience and fostering creative development. Instagram

MCAD frequently hosts workshops, exhibits, and conceptual art performances, such as those by Heidi Bucher, which often occur on specific days. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside MCAD. However, always be observant of signage or staff instructions regarding specific artworks or exhibitions where photography might be restricted. TikTok

While not explicitly stated, it's a common practice in art museums to prohibit flash photography as it can damage delicate artworks. Always check for signs or ask a museum attendant if unsure. Reddit

Many visitors find the unique sculptures and the 'Brick Paintings' by Maria Taniguchi to be highly photogenic. The overall modern architecture of the museum also offers great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Professional photography equipment, including tripods, may require special permission. It's best to contact MCAD in advance if you plan to use such equipment for a photoshoot. Instagram

You can share your experiences and photos on social media using hashtags like #MCADManila, #ContemporaryArt, and #ArtPH. Tagging the museum can also help others discover your work. Instagram

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