Words and Images Manila Illustration Fair 2024
Editing Gabrielle de la Cruz
And the drawing continues! After a successful debut in 2023, the Manila Illustration Fair (MIF) is back in 2024 with more to offer! The event invites students, advocates, and collectors alike to “experience the vibrant world of illustration” from September 13 (Friday) to 15 (Sunday) at the Parola Gallery Atrium of the University of the Philippines Diliman College for Fine Arts.
“As illustration fairs continue to gain popularity across Southeast Asia, cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta have become thriving hubs for diverse voices in the illustration community,” MIF 2024 says. “Manila is poised to join this creative movement, showcasing illustration as a specialized practice in the Philippines—a country with a rich art history and a flourishing art market.”
Manila Illustration Fair 2024’s official poster and a second version with artist lineup. Header: Kababaihan by Art of Pronch
Illustrators namely Addi Panadero, Alyssa Babasa, Allyschu, ALIEN OPINIONS of APB, Art of Pronch, Artofpatoo, Bea Batungbacal, Bethania Brigitta, Bloomer, Chenny Aviana, Dave Lajara, Ev Yu, Hey Mady!, Ina Palacio, Ja Amores, Jamie Bauza, JC Lo (JCdelic), Josel Nicolas, Kenny Tai, kieltokki, Marcushiro, Nada, Misha Felix, nnene.iie, Ohwelladays, Patricia Salonga, Paulina Almira, Ping Sasinan, pi.near, Sobsannix, and Studio Micki were selected for this edition. Like last year, the featured artists are free to conceptualize and decorate their booths and attendees have the opportunity to take home artworks from the event.
“The University of the Philippines Diliman College of Fine Arts (UPCFA) is a fitting venue for the event as the oldest arts and design educational institution in the country,” MIF 2024 says, adding that the partnership highlights their “shared pursuit of artistic excellence and the importance of enriching Philippine society through art that reflects humanity and cultural heritage.”
MIF2024 Head Organizer and UPCFA alumnus Elle Shivers shares that their team worked closely with the college “to ensure that artists and patrons get to experience how illustration can bring people together and witness the endless application of the art form.”
SAVE MANILA’S HERITAGE by Kenny Tai and sample page from Windmills 8, Grief zine by Josel Nicolas
A series of simultaneous events over the three days, including round table discussions, workshops, and a portfolio review will be happening on top of the open art market. These events are “designed to provide both artists and enthusiasts with valuable insights and opportunities for growth and networking.”
Fairgoers are welcomed and encouraged to interact with MIF’s guests who work in the fields of publishing, creative retail, and art collectives and get a chance to immerse themselves in interactive activities that showcase illustration’s diverse range of applications.
Watch Closely by Bethania Brigitta, Caterpillar No. 2 by Misha Felix, Quarantine Party by Studio Micki, and The Conversations Between The Author and The Architect by Mady Hey Mady!
Stronger ties
The fair continues to strengthen its regional and local ties with industry events and brands. This year, it has partnered with the Kuala Lumpur Illustration Fair, aiming to “enrich both communities and foster cultural exchange, highlighting the importance of illustration as a distinct form of art that bridges cultures and ideas.”
Local and inaugural partner, Manila Middle Ground, continues its support alongside new and old event partners. This year’s co-presenters are Kodawari, a Manila-based dining concept and restaurant renowned for its vibrant Filipino-Japanese fusion menu, and Nude Floor, a multidisciplinary platform and art space at the heart of the metro.
“MIF collaborated with Kodawari on a special project celebrating how their food fuels Filipino creatives,” MIF 2024 shares. Meanwhile, Nude Floor has graciously provided their space to host a fundraiser, helping to boost attendance and support and sustain the event. “This collaboration also offers a valuable opportunity to connect with other creative communities and encourages the spirit of learning from and making space for one another.”
A sneak peek of the MIF 2024 venue and a team Photo from Space63 Event–Prelude to Bagay-Bagay Exhibition
Manila Illustration Fair 2024 is also proudly sponsored by MOLD, Hydroflask, and KolourPro Print Studio. The fair has also partnered with Spruce Gallery, Nobody Clothing, Googly Gooeys Design Team & Craft Shop, Art Whale, Primex, Day One Studios, Sneckoil Press, and Everything’s Fine.
Pre-register and secure discounted tickets to the fair here! Online ticket packages range from ₱50 to ₱200, while limited walk-in tickets will cost ₱120 per day. The fair will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. •
For more information, visit manilaillustrationfair.com or contact manilaillustrationfair@gmail.com
