By Art+ Magazine
September 12, 2024

The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) is hosting a free, month-long exhibition in celebration of the 40th year of the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) program. Titled Sibol, the exhibit will showcase a curated selection of winning artworks throughout the years of conducting MADE competitions. At the exhibition opening, MBFI will also introduce the new chapter of its visual arts competition for the upcoming year.

The Sibol exhibition will be accessible to the public from September 20 to October 19, 2024, at the 2nd Floor North and 3rd Floor South Galleries of The M (formerly Metropolitan Museum of Manila) in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The galleries are open from 11 am to 6 pm on Wednesdays to Fridays and 10 am to 6 pm on weekends.

Sibol will offer a captivating journey through the evolution of the MADE program over the past four decades. Each artwork represents a unique era, reflecting the cultural and sociopolitical landscape of a particular period. In addition to MADE’s permanent collection, also on the exhibition is a selection of recent artworks and design objects by awardees whose practices have developed far beyond the categories in which they were originally recognized.

The 1994 MADE Exhibition at the Metrobank Plaza in Makati (left), 1999 “Labinlima” Exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum of Manila (middle), and 2014 Art MADE Public Exhibition at SM Iloilo (right)

“Culture is a fundamental pillar of nation-building. By nurturing Filipino artistry and creativity through MADE, we are empowering local artists and fostering a thriving visual arts community,” said MBFI President Aniceto Sobrepeña. “The Sibol exhibition is a testament to the evolution and diversity of Philippine art and culture over the past four decades and we’re excited to invite everyone to see and experience that through the interactive artworks that we have on display.”

For enhanced visitor engagement, interactive elements will be added to the artistic experience. Special display treatments and digital technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and digital canvas will also be made available to create an immersive experience. 

As part of the anniversary celebration, the Metrobank Foundation will also host a series of exclusive exhibit tours for MADE artists and partners, media, Metrobank employees, as well as teachers, in support of the National Teachers’ Month. Additionally, a public workshop featuring artists and creative industry leaders will be held to discuss relevant topics about Philippine art and design.

Through its annual competition, workshops, partnerships, and community outreach programs, MADE has consistently provided a platform for Filipino artists to express creativity, nurture artistic development, connect with peers, and contribute to the nation’s rich cultural heritage. To date, more than 200 artists have been recognized by the program.

To know more about MADE and Sibol exhibition, visit facebook.com/metrobankartanddesign.

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The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) was established on January 8, 1979 by Dr. George S. K. Ty, sixteen (16) years after he founded the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank). On its 45th anniversary, MBFI envisions to be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development.  Its flagship programs include the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos; Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE); Metrobank Scholarship Program (MSP); Metrobank MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC); Grants and Social Development Partnerships, Disaster Response, National Teachers’ Month (NTM) celebration, and the Metrobank Foundation Professorial Chair Lectures. MBFI is also the principal owner of the Manila Doctors Hospital (MDH), one of the leading centers of wellness in the country.   

As a development organization, MBFI aims to uplift individuals and the sectors they represent and strategically link with institutions for a shared purpose. By creating and propagating a culture of excellence and providing solutions to stakeholder’s needs, the Foundation continuously expands its scope of reach to be at the forefront of serving communities. As the heart of the Metrobank Group, “Excel. Engage. Empower.” or the 3Es remains its roadmap.