At Circuit Makati, the future Kontempo Center—now renamed the Center for Contemporary Arts Philippines—promises to redefine the cultural scene by blending temporary exhibitions, lush greenery, and seamless integration into the urban fabric. A true artistic experience designed to be in constant motion.
Architecture of Fluidity
The Ayala Foundation unveils here much more than just a museum. Designed to break free from the static nature of traditional institutions, Kontempo stands on a two-hectare site blending built spaces and open gardens. The project centers around three majestic galleries, featuring generous spaces to accommodate monumental installations, all complemented by nearly 15,000 square meters of wooded areas. Far from being mere landscape ornaments, these outdoor spaces are designed as true living environments, conducive to exhibitions, social interaction, and public engagement.
Culture as a Living Organism
Breaking with the sacralization of the permanent collection, the center prioritizes an organic approach: rotating exhibitions, commissions of new works, educational programs, and community engagement. This vision is championed by Tony Lambino, president of the Ayala Foundation, who sees the project as a continuation of sixty years of commitment to the arts. The ambition is clear: to democratize access to contemporary art within a fundamentally inclusive space.
A philosophy that Paloma Zobel de Ayala, creative director at Ayala Land Inc., sums up through the concept of “Culture in Motion.” More than just painting or sculpture, the venue will give pride of place to digital arts, film, sound exploration, and performance, inviting visitors to become active participants in the experience.
An urban hub designed for interaction
Entrusted to the vision of architects Kulapat Yantrasast and Ed Calma, the building’s architecture blends seamlessly into the Circuit Makati master plan. The goal is not to erect an isolated monument like a sacred, untouchable temple, but rather to create a vibrant cultural hub woven into the fabric of the city’s daily life. The center aims to bring together students, families, artists, collectors, and casual passersby.
While the opening date is still tentatively set for between 2027 and 2028—a flexibility inherent in projects of this scale—the artistic direction is already making its ambitions clear. The appointment of Australian curator Reuben Keehan, drawing on his experience at the Queensland Art Gallery, ensures a cutting-edge program to shape the venue’s identity over the long term.
In a landscape where cultural institutions are scarce, Kontempo is making a bold bet to transform the financial heart of Makati into a hub of the avant-garde. A place where contemporary art can circulate, challenge conventions, and pulse to the frenetic rhythm of the city.