A new beacon for contemporary art is rising in the heart of Makati, and a visionary leader has been chosen to guide its course. Reuben Keehan, a renowned curator with over a decade of experience at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art in Australia, will become the artistic director of Kontempo.
Kontempo, a name deliberately crafted using Filipino spelling to emphasize its identity, isn’t simply another gallery. It’s envisioned as a vibrant hub – a space where curiosity blossoms and creativity knows no bounds. The goal is to engage audiences of all ages with a diverse spectrum of artistic expression.
The center will boast an impressive footprint: three gallery spaces spanning 2,500 square meters, interwoven with 15,000 square meters of lush, open green space. This unique blend will allow for both traditional exhibitions and large-scale installations, blurring the lines between art and the natural world.
The location itself carries a rich history. Kontempo is being built alongside the revitalized Pasig River, on land once occupied by the iconic Santa Ana racetrack, a fixture of Manila life from 1937 to 2009. This transformation symbolizes a powerful shift – from a place of spectacle to a sanctuary of artistic exploration.
The architectural design, a collaboration between WHY Architecture and Lor Calma & Partners, promises a structure as innovative as the art it will house. The building’s form is intended to complement and enhance the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces.
Keehan’s arrival marks a significant moment for the Philippine art scene. His extensive work with the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, fostering collaborations across the region, demonstrates a commitment to connecting local artists with a global audience.
“The Philippines has long been a vital and dynamic force within contemporary art and culture,” Keehan stated, expressing his enthusiasm for the project. He envisions Kontempo as a catalyst for dialogue, bringing together artists, audiences, and disciplines in a dynamic exchange.
Overseen by the Ayala Foundation, a cultural steward with over 60 years of experience – including the renowned Ayala Museum – Kontempo is poised to become a cornerstone of the nation’s artistic landscape. The center’s programs will encompass exhibitions, commissions, research, education, and community outreach.
This ambitious project also aligns with broader national initiatives, specifically the revitalization of the 25-kilometer Pasig River Esplanade, promising a renewed cultural vibrancy along the river’s banks. Kontempo is set to be more than just an art center; it’s a symbol of progress and a testament to the power of artistic vision.
Keehan’s appointment is pending final clearances, but anticipation is already building. The Philippines is preparing to welcome a leader who will undoubtedly shape the future of contemporary art in the region, and Kontempo is ready to become its vibrant new home.
