Set to rise at Circuit Makati under the operational expertise of the Ayala Foundation, which manages the Ayala Museum and the Filipinas Heritage Library, is a center for contemporary art alongside other notable artistic venues in the complex, such as the Samsung Performance Arts Theater and the PowerMac Black Box Theater. It promises to be a thought-provoking space, a cradle for visual art in every imaginable medium, making Circuit Makati truly a prime destination for culture and creativity. 

“Envision a space that serves as an experimental platform for artists to explore innovative concepts in response to the ever-changing world around us,” says Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Foundation chairman. “A place that fosters curiosity and creativity, igniting a passion for the new and the now. This center will be a space that not only showcases contemporary art but also nurtures the creative spirit within us all.” 

The plan and its promise to take with it on a huge leap forward the already vibrant art and culture scene in the Philippines were revealed on two significant milestones—the 50th anniversary of Ayala Museum, as well as the 190th anniversary of Ayala Corporation. 

“We believe that an appreciation of Filipino culture and heritage is an integral part of national development. This upcoming contemporary art center is an expression of our enduring commitment to uphold arts and culture as an important pillar of Ayala Foundation,” says Tony Lambino, Ayala Foundation president.

The “epitome of new” is how the center is described, designed as it is to engage visitors of all ages as well as to inspire new art and new ways of thinking and creating any art form, whether visual, installation, performance, film, digital, or any new medium or style, including interactive experiences. As described in the unveiling, it will be made to showcase, celebrate, and invite the full spectrum of contemporary creativity. 

The building was designed by globally renowned architect Kulapat Yantrasast and his firm, WHY Architecture, in partnership with Lor Calma & Partners. Known as today’s go-to architect for premier cultural institutions, Yantrasast and his team are behind major museum renovation projects such as the Rockefeller Wing of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the new wing of The Louvre. Representing the local perspective is acclaimed Philippine firm Lor Calma & Partners, led by architect Ed Calma, whose portfolio includes the Mind Museum in BGC and the Museum of Contemporary Art at the College of St. Benilde School of Design and Art. This partnership combines WHY’s innovative approach to cultural spaces with Lor Calma & Partners’ deep-rooted understanding of Filipino design heritage.

This center will also serve as an anchor locator in Makati’s emerging creative district by the scenic Pasig River. The iconic building prioritizes sustainability and future-forward design solutions that are faithful to the city’s commitment to being environmentally conscious in light of pressing climate challenges. It will also align with the Philippine government’s vision for the 25-kilometer Pasig River esplanade. 

“This contemporary art museum completes Circuit Makati’s vision as a center for arts and culture. It is an iconic addition to the estate that not only anchors the arts alongside the performing arts theater, but also uplifts the entire community by inspiring creativity and innovation,” shared Ayala Land president and CEO Meean Dy. 

With its focus on contemporary art and being part of a larger creative district, the contemporary art center stands to benefit the immediate community surrounding Circuit Makati, an area that has had a history of being a center for artistic creation. It is envisioned to be an important center for the growing creative industries sector of the Philippines. This addition will cement Makati’s role as a leading hub for art and culture in the Philippines and beyond.