Starting out as a virtual platform, the gallery opens its first physical space
As the pandemic pushed many to observe strict physical distancing, many industries took notice of how essential it is for their business to have a strong digital presence. We are not talking about just getting likes and shares on social media but business operations that truly thrive and work online. Some ditched their brick and mortar stores and boutiques, and invested in providing online customer service. Food spots and restaurants adopted ghost kitchens or cloud kitchens to keep their brands afloat. That’s why it is surprising—and quite joyous—to see some people brave the current pandemic situation and build physical spaces to offer IRL experiences.
That’s what Mykee Martinez and Inna Go-David did as they launched a new art space in San Juan City, the M Gallery MNL. Unlike today’s entrepreneurial tales of digital exodus, M Gallery MNL started off as a virtual platform that is now taking a leap with its physical display. They believe that seeing artworks through screens is incomparable to actually viewing them in galleries. One gets the sense of the artists’ journey through the stresses of their brushstrokes, the way they mix hues, and how the overall mood of their pieces feel.
“The advantage of having a physical store is that our clients have a wider variety of art pieces on hand,” the founders tell Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “Though we have them on our Instagram page as well, seeing and feeling the artworks themselves provide a more in-depth understanding and appreciation of the artwork.”
To spotlight up-and-coming Filipino artists, that is the core idea behind the store creation and M Gallery MNL truly does its mission. It features an array of artworks from realism paintings to expressionism and abstracts. Art collectors will have a variety of choices when buying pieces that will only appraise in value.
Apart from showcasing local works, the gallery also offers other services such as artwork framing and commission-based painting, where clients tell them what they want and the gallery takes care of arranging things with artists who will be able to accommodate such requests.
M Gallery Mnl opened its doors on Oct. 10, 2021, with guests Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, president and managing partner of the A Design Group Tessa Alindogan, and former PBA player JC “King Eagle” Intal leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Be sure to check out M Gallery MNL at Unit D DPL Building, MJ Paterno Street, Brgy Pasadena San Juan City, or online @mgallery.mnl on Instagram.