Orange Project in Art District, Bacolod City

The Orange Project Art District in Bacolod City is a hub for contemporary art in the heart of the city’s bustling Mandalagan district. The art district is a sprawling complex that houses a variety of galleries, studios, and exhibition spaces, making it the largest art-dedicated space in Bacolod City.

Orange Project is an 18-year-old art gallery that has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the most prominent galleries in the art district. Founded in 2005 by artist and curator Charlie Co, the gallery began as an artist-run selling gallery, aiming to create a market accessible to Negrense artists.

Over the years, the focus shifted from a market-oriented perspective to a space developing young artists in Negros Occidental. This shift has paid off, as Orange Project is now known for its dynamic exhibitions and commitment to showcasing the work of up-and-coming artists from the region. By expanding the conversations and possibilities of art in the Philippines, Orange Project has become a driving force in the art world.

Overview of Orange Project Art District

Orange Project Art District is in the middle of Lopue’s Mandalagan, a local shopping and business complex. Orange Project Art District has become a driving force in expanding the region’s conversations and possibilities of art.

The mission of Orange Project Art District is to elevate the arts consciousness in Negros Island. The art district is a tangible contribution towards this goal, expanding creative potential in a flexible space that has blossomed into an art hub. It is exploration, collaboration, explosion, reflection, and cross-discipline. It is art without fear and with fun.

The largest and biggest structure in The Art District is the Orange Project building. The Orange Project is a collaborative undertaking between artist Charlie Co and businessman-artist Victor Benjamin Lopue III. The Orange Project aims to elevate artistic consciousness in Negros Island and provide a space for artists to showcase their work.

The Orange Project Art District is where artists and art enthusiasts come together to explore, collaborate, and push the boundaries of art. The art district has become a destination for those who appreciate culture and creativity. Visitors can expect to see diverse works in various mediums from established and up-and-coming artists.

History and Founders

Orange Project was established by businessman-artist Victor Benjamin Lopue III and artist Charlie Co, who shared a passion for elevating artistic consciousness on Negros Island.

The Orange Project building, the largest and most prominent structure in the Art District, is the hub of the district’s activities. The building was designed as a flexible space that could accommodate a variety of creative possibilities. It has blossomed into an art hub where artists can explore, collaborate, and reflect on their work without fear.

Victor Benjamin Lopue III is a well-known businessman in Bacolod City. He is the third generation of the Lopue family, which owns one of the largest supermarket chains in the region. Despite his success in business, Victor has always been passionate about the arts. He believes that the arts have the power to transform society and enrich people’s lives.

Charlie Co is a renowned artist who has been active in the Philippine art scene for many years. He is known for his innovative use of materials and his ability to create powerful, thought-provoking works of art. Charlie is also a passionate advocate for the arts and has worked tirelessly to promote the arts in Bacolod City and beyond.

Together, Victor and Charlie founded Orange Project Art District to create a space where artists could thrive and the arts could flourish. Their vision has been realized, and Orange Project Art District is now a vibrant hub of creativity in Bacolod City.

Location and Facilities

Orange Project Art District is situated on the corner of Lacson Street and Santa Clara Avenue, Barangay Mandalagan, Bacolod City. It spans half a block and contains restaurants, bars, and artist-run spaces.

The Orange Project Building is a two-level building that houses the Orange Hall, a multi-purpose venue for exhibitions, performances, and events. The Orange Hall is a flexible space that can accommodate various events, from art exhibits to concerts. The hall has a capacity of up to 200 people and is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.

The Orange Project Building also houses several artist-run spaces, including galleries, studios, and workshops. These spaces provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work and engage with the community. Visitors can explore the various galleries and studios to discover the diverse art and craft on display.

The vibrant Art District of Negros is home to the beloved Safehouse Theatre, a small movie theater dedicated to celebrating the Negrense filmmaking tradition. Peque Gallaga, the critically acclaimed director who inspired generations of filmmakers, left an indelible legacy when he passed away in 2020. His memory is honored in the mural that adorns the theater. Safehouse Theatre opened in February 2019, offering a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their work. Every week, visitors can enjoy a variety of genres, including special screenings of films about the lives of renowned Negrense visual artists Nunelucio Alvarado and Charlie Co. According to Milton Dionzon, the theater’s curator, the 30-seater cinema is a place “where Negrense artistry can be celebrated and appreciated.”

Lopue’s Annex Building is another facility within the Orange Project Art District. This building is home to several restaurants and bars, offering a variety of cuisines and drinks. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the art district.

Exhibitions and Events

Types of Exhibitions

Orange Project Art District is a contemporary art space showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions. The gallery’s changing exhibitions include solo and group shows, installations, and sculpture exhibitions. These exhibitions feature the works of established and emerging artists from the Philippines and around the world.

Gallery Orange, located within the Orange Project Art District, is a space dedicated to showcasing the works of local artists. The gallery’s exhibitions focus on contemporary art, featuring works in various mediums such as painting, sculpture, and photography.

Major Events

Orange Project Art District hosts several major productions and events throughout the year. One of the most significant events is the Art Fair Philippines, an annual event that brings together local and international galleries to showcase contemporary art. Orange Project has regularly participated in this event, showcasing the works of its resident artists.

Artists and Artworks

Orange Project Art District in Bacolod City is known for its unique and innovative art pieces, and the artists who showcase their works here are no exception.

One of the most popular artists at Orange Project is Brandon Braza. Braza is a local artist who has gained recognition for his intricate and thought-provoking pieces. His works often explore complex themes such as identity and social justice, and he is known for his use of mixed media.

Another notable artist at Orange Project is Nonie Gallenero. Gallenero is a visual artist who specializes in painting and sculpture. Her works often depict the beauty of nature, and she is known for her use of vibrant colors and intricate details.

In addition to local artists, Orange Project showcases works by foreign artists. Guenivere Decena is one such artist. Decena is a Filipino-American artist who has gained recognition for her abstract paintings. Her works often explore themes such as memory and emotion, and she is known for her use of bold colors and expressive brushstrokes.

Artistic Approach and Themes

The art hub is expanding creative potential in a flexible space that has blossomed into an art hub. Its mission is to elevate arts consciousness in Negros Island, making it a hub for young artists and established creatives alike.

The art space is a platform for exploration, collaboration, explosion, reflection, and cross-disciplinary work. It encourages artists to push beyond their comfort zones and create works challenging the status quo. The Orange Project Art District is a safe space for creative expression where artists can create without fear.

The art space is known for supporting young artists, providing a platform for them to showcase their works alongside established creatives. The Block 17 Art Space, located within the Orange Project Art District, is dedicated to showcasing the works of emerging artists.

The themes of the Orange Project Art District are diverse and reflect the interests and concerns of the artists who create there. The art space is known for its political art, which engages with social issues and encourages critical thinking. The Orange Project Art District also features works that explore personal identity, memory, and the human experience.

Community Engagement

The art space provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work and encourages creative potential among the local artist community. The district is a hub for fun and creativity, constantly exposing visitors to new and exciting art forms.

One way Orange Project Art District engages with the community is through artist talks. These talks allow visitors to learn about the creative process and the inspiration behind the artwork. This helps to foster a deeper appreciation for the art and the artists who create it.

In addition to artist talks, Orange Project Art District also hosts curated exhibitions. These exhibitions showcase the work of both established and emerging artists, providing a platform for them to reach a wider audience. The exhibitions are carefully curated to ensure visitors are exposed to diverse art styles and mediums.

Orange Project Art District also provides a range of art spaces for local artists to use. These spaces are designed to encourage collaboration and creativity, allowing artists to work together and share ideas. This helps foster a sense of community among local artists, encouraging them to work together to create new and exciting art.

Future Plans

Orange Project in the Art District of Bacolod City has been promoting contemporary art in the Negros Occidental. The professionally run gallery has been a driving force in expanding the conversations and possibilities of art in the area.

In the future, Orange Project Art District plans to continue its mission to promote contemporary art and bring it closer to the people. The gallery intends to be more than just a space for exhibiting art. It aims to become a hub for art enthusiasts, collectors, and artists.

One of the plans for the future is to make the art district a flexible exhibition venue. The gallery will host various art events, including workshops, talks, and exhibitions. This move aims to create a vibrant art scene where artists and art lovers can interact and share their ideas.

Another plan is to showcase more large artworks. The gallery aims to attract artists who create large installations, sculptures, and paintings. This move aims to create a unique experience for gallery visitors.

Orange Project Art District also plans to be at the forefront of the region’s art movement. The gallery aims to collaborate with other galleries and museums to promote contemporary art in Negros Occidental.

Finally, Orange Project Art District plans to expand its offerings beyond art. The gallery has partnered with Tropicalia Pizza to provide food and drinks to visitors. The plan is to expand the partnership to include other local businesses, creating a unique experience for gallery visitors.

Contact Info

Address: Orange Project Building, Art District, Lopue’s Annex Building, Mandalagan, Bacolod City, Philippines 6100
Telephone: 034 431 3713
Mobile: +63 917 712 2798
Email: gallery@orangeproject.ph
Website: www.orangeproject.ph

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Project in Bacolod City?

Orange Project is a contemporary art space located within the Art District at Lopue’s Mandalagan Annex in Bacolod City. It began as Gallery Orange in 2005 through a collaboration between visual artist Charlie Co and businessman-artist Victor Benjamin Lopue III. Over the years, it evolved from a gallery focused on creating a market for Negrense artists into a broader artist-run initiative supporting exhibitions, collaborations, discussions, performances, and other creative practices.

Where is Orange Project located?

Orange Project is located at the Orange Project Building, Art District, Lopue’s Annex Building, Mandalagan, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. The Art District is within the Lopue’s Mandalagan complex and has become one of Bacolod’s recognizable creative hubs. Its location also makes it convenient to combine an art visit with dining, cafés, and other creative spaces in the area.

What can visitors see at Orange Project?

Visitors can see contemporary artworks presented in rotating exhibitions and across different artistic media. Orange Project has hosted paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations, performance art, conceptual works, textile art, photography, and other contemporary forms. Its exhibitions have featured artists from Negros, other parts of the Philippines, and international participants.

Why is Orange Project important to Bacolod’s art scene?

Orange Project has played an important role in the development of contemporary art in Bacolod and Negros. Its founders established Gallery Orange in 2005, when professionally managed regional galleries were less common. The project eventually expanded beyond exhibiting and selling artwork to include artist discussions, collaborations, performances, artist talks, and curated exhibitions. It has helped provide a platform for artists working outside Metro Manila.

Who founded Orange Project?

Orange Project developed from a collaboration between visual artist Charlie Co and businessman-artist Victor Benjamin Lopue III. Their partnership began with Gallery Orange in 2005. The gallery later moved into larger spaces before becoming Orange Project in 2018, when it transferred to its current two-level building.

What is the Art District in Bacolod City?

The Art District is a creative hub in Mandalagan, Bacolod City. It was established in 2009 by Victor Benjamin Lopue III. The approximately 10,000-square-meter complex includes Orange Project, the artist residency house Naranja, galleries, creative spaces, restaurants, and establishments connected to the local arts community. It has developed into a place where visitors can experience exhibitions, murals, performances, food, and other creative activities.

Is Orange Project only for professional artists and serious art collectors?

No. Orange Project welcomes people who are interested in contemporary art and creative culture, including visitors who may not have a formal background in art. Its exhibitions cover different styles and mediums, making the space accessible to travelers who simply want to discover another side of Bacolod. The surrounding Art District also has a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can combine art appreciation with dining and exploring.

Is there an entrance fee to Orange Project?

Entrance policies may depend on the exhibition or event. Some activities may be free, while special programs or events may have their own arrangements. Visitors planning a dedicated trip to Orange Project should check the gallery’s latest announcements or contact the gallery directly before visiting.

What are Orange Project’s opening hours?

Opening hours can change depending on exhibitions, events, and special programs. Visitors should confirm the latest schedule before going, particularly if Orange Project is a specific stop on their Bacolod itinerary. This is especially important during holidays, festivals, and special exhibitions.

How long should I spend at Orange Project and the Art District?

Allow at least one to two hours if you want to explore Orange Project and some of the surrounding Art District. Art enthusiasts may want to spend more time, especially when a major exhibition is on display. Since the district also has restaurants, cafés, murals, galleries, and creative establishments, you can easily turn a gallery visit into a longer cultural experience.

What else can I do near Orange Project?

The Art District itself is worth exploring beyond the main Orange Project building. Visitors can discover other galleries, creative spaces, murals, restaurants, cafés, and establishments connected to Bacolod’s creative community. It is a good place to spend a few hours if you want to experience a more contemporary side of the city.

Is Orange Project worth visiting when traveling to Bacolod?

Orange Project is worth considering for travelers interested in contemporary art, local culture, and Bacolod’s creative community. It offers a different perspective on the city beyond its famous food, heritage attractions, festivals, and historic sites. A visit can also introduce travelers to artists from Negros and provide insight into the region’s growing contemporary art scene. For travelers creating a cultural itinerary in Bacolod, Orange Project and the surrounding Art District make an interesting arts and culture stop.

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