UPV MACH opens two new exhibitions

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The University of the Philippines Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage opened two new exhibitions on March 24, 2026.

The first exhibition, “Lapnag: Cultivating Knowledge Through Print,” explores how printed materials have shaped beliefs and enabled the spread of information, education, and entertainment within communities. It traces the history of printing through a range of significant works, including a 1485 incunabulum, 17th-century textbooks, 18th- and 19th-century Philippine maps, 19th-century illustrated periodicals, early 20th-century newspapers from Panay, and modern comic books. Through these materials, “Lapnag” highlights the transformative impact of print on society.

The majority of the artifacts on display have been generously donated by longtime MACH supporters Reginald Zell, an artist and cultural researcher, and his wife, Eloisa Abelarde Zell, a UP alumna. The exhibition also includes materials from the UPV Center for West Visayan Studies archives.

Additionally, artist Jeanroll Ejar contributed a Hiligaynon translation of José Rizal’s “El Filibusterismo,” translated by Rosendo Mejica, to the exhibit. Ejar has also previously donated Higantes, Bacong potteries, and Chinese ceramics to MACH’s collection. The remaining artifacts are on loan from several private collectors.

The second exhibition, “Panulok kag Tingug: Women in Art — Women’s Art,” is presented in conjunction with the 2026 National Women’s Month celebrations. Featuring works by both male and female artists, the exhibition explores a significant and enduring question: how have men represented women as subjects in art, and how have women articulated their own identities and worldviews?

Featured women artists in this exhibition include Brenda Fajardo, Ofelia Gelvezon-Tequi, Nelfa Querubin, Virginia Flor Agbayani, Pardo de Leon, Gigi Alfonso, Om Madhu, Margaux Blas, Charmaine Española, Mia Reyes, Marites Eusoya, Althea Villanueva, Gleane Gentizon, and Aryanne Malanguis.

“Lapnag” is on view at the Lantip Changing Exhibition Gallery 1, while “Panulok kag Tingug” is exhibited at the Hanas Changing Exhibition Gallery 2. Both exhibitions are curated by Martin Genodepa and are presented by the Office of Initiatives in Culture and the Arts.

UPV MACH, which currently features nine ongoing exhibitions, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every week, except on Wednesdays, Sundays, and official holidays. Extended Saturday hours apply only until June 6, 2026.