Baguio is renowned for its weather, food, and nature, but it also stands out as a haven for art and culture, offering more than just traditional art galleries.
Located along Session Road in Baguio City, the La Azotea building stands as a landmark on this bustling street. Not many will know that on top of this building, a whole new world awaits.
Ascending a flight of stairs, visitors are transported to a unique world awaiting discovery. The fifth floor reveals a nature-themed haven housing the VOCAS gallery (Victor Oteyza Community Art Space), alongside a vegetarian restaurant where one can savor a meal or enjoy a refreshing drink.
Conceived by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik in 2004, this project began as a labor of love and a tribute to his late uncle, Victor Oteyza, one of the Thirteen Moderns. Over the years, the initiative evolved into a collaborative effort, with Kidlat and fellow artists contributing to the property's “growth.” This journey birthed the vegan restaurant "Oh My Gulay," now a destination in its own right for those seeking a unique blend of art, nature, and food.
Artistic sanctuary in the city
Sumitra, the manager of Oh My Gulay, shared the property's transformation story. Initially conceived as an art gallery providing a platform for local artists, it gradually shifted its focus. Kidlat expanded the concept to include a vegetarian restaurant.
"It started as VOCAS, primarily an art gallery. The idea was to offer a venue for budding and established artists to showcase their work. Then, Kidlat thought about the visitors – hungry and thirsty – coming up the stairs. That's when Oh My Gulay came about," Sumitra explained.
The property is promoted “organically,” relying on word of mouth rather than traditional advertising. “I remember when I was new, the whole place – because I've been here for six years – was already operational when I arrived. We call Kidlat, Tatay. I was telling Tatay, sometimes, it’s hard for people to find the place. Why don't we put a sign downstairs and make it easier for them? And, he said, ‘No, it's a Shangri-La, let them struggle. To find this place, like Shangri-La, where you don't even know where it is… you have to walk,’” she shared.
Despite occasional reviews in the media and online, the venue is like an “open secret.” “It's word of mouth, mostly. Sometimes you get good reviews, sometimes you don't — just like any other place. But, there's no mistake that this is a beautiful place. When it comes to the ambience of the place, I have not yet met anybody who said that this is not a nice place.”
Breathing art and creativity
Upon entry, guests are enveloped in a nature-themed ambiance, featuring lush foliage and overgrown leaves. A quaint bridge spans a koi pond, offering a picturesque walkway.
To the left, there’s a theater stage, which can host music concerts and art presentations. Nearby, an art exhibit curated by Kawayan de Guia, Kidlat’s son, displays artworks from across the country, with rotations every two to three months.
On the right, a ship serves as the project's focal point, providing an immersive experience as visitors stroll along the wooden planks around it. Seated near the windows, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of Baguio.
The venue showcases diverse artworks, from paintings adorning the walls to wood carvings displayed on the theater stage. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking a holistic cultural experience, this place ensures an unforgettable journey in this city on the highlands.
Sometimes, art is just around us in plain sight, but it takes effort — or taking a flight of stairs — to discover its real beauty.