Article by Ryanne Co / Photos by Jeanne Dizon
Art enthusiast? We hear you. Museums are great, but not when you feel disconnected from the pieces themselves. Fortunately for us, a certain museum in Cubao is more than ready and willing to let us both look and touch what they have to offer.
The Filipino love affair with taking selfies and capturing moments finds a medium of expression in Art in Island. Located in Cubao, Art in Island is one of the largest 3D trick art museums open to the public. Its fun and interactive nature allows kids and kids-at-heart not just to look, but also to play with the hundreds of masterpieces they have to offer. We’re pretty sure that if you haven’t been here yet, you’ve seen photos of your friends who have…and have wished you came along!
Founded 3 years ago, Art in Island brings the talent of Korean master painters to Manila. Yun Jae Kyoung, who founded the museum, brought a team of more than 10 painters and finished nearly 200 masterpieces together in 4 months. All of the paintings make use of complex art concepts in order to achieve that 3D effect – and I’m sure you can imagine how difficult that can be!
Head to Cubao if you’re interested in checking out this interactive museum! The establishment itself encourages you to bring your camera and take as many pictures as you want. Just don’t forget that, like anywhere else, there is etiquette to be observed (don’t walk in on someone else’s picture, for instance!).
Of course, it would be best to bring your friends and family who are down to be your assigned photographer of the day, but fear not, you lone wolves. The staff is friendly and very accommodating; they’ll gladly take your picture for you, too.Plenty of people who have gone to Art In Island suggest staying for 2-3 hours. That will give you enough time to walk around the 2-storey museum without rushing.
One problem that some people might encounter within the area is angling the camera, so that the photos look convincing. Don’t worry! The staff have it all figured out. Stickers are placed on the floor to help you take the perfect pic! Some of the more popular exhibits include very realistic paintings of mythical worlds with giant trees and flowers. Don’t be shocked to see giant animals breaking through walls painted on the surfaces, either!
If you decide to go soon, you’re in for a treat! Art in Island just launched a special Christmas exhibit that features a giant pug, a giant baby, and a polar bear (to name a few). This is as weird as it sounds, but it’s also wonderfully whimsical – sure to give you that warm feeling Christmas is oh-so-famous for.
If you’re interested in going, take note that the museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 9:30am to 9:30pm. Tickets cost 500 pesos, but there are discounts for students, seniors, and PWDs. So, what are you waiting for? Here’s to one of the best Christmases you can give yourself and your loved ones.
Art in Island
175 15th Ave., Brgy. Socorro, Cubao, Quezon City
https://www.facebook.com/artinisland/
