Pinto Gallery: The Fusion of Art and Nature

The busy and fast-paced environment in the metro will always drive us to go somewhere that can help us to relax and clear our minds of stress. But what most don't realise is that you can do that without travelling far from Manila. In Antipolo City, there is a tranquil retreat where both art and nature become one: The Pinto Art Gallery. 

The entrance of the museum. The word "pinto" is Filipino for "door."
It became an inspiration as a gateway for any type of contemporary art.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

Being just one hour away from Manila, Antipolo is a town located uphill in the east where you can look at the metro from a different perspective. The Pinto Art Gallery has been home to modern and contemporary art exhibitions since 2001 when artist Antonio Leano developed this old storage space into a paradise for art. Since then, it has been home to countless works of art and hosted several events even on an international scale.

As you pass through the small entrance of the museum, you will immediately notice the change in the environment. It is like stepping into a world where there is peace and calmness in the air. You will be assisted by the museum resident who will lead you to their small registration area. The museum entrance fee is Php 150 (USD 2-3) and you will be given a map to guide your way through the museum. 

Despite its small entrance, the museum is situated on a hectare wide property, which houses over 300 pieces of unique Filipino art. The museum is divided into 3 galleries, which can be rented by artists who wish to display their art. Exhibit schedules are updated and released through their website on a regular basis so it is recommended to visit regularly for upcoming events. 

One of Pinto's most popular galleries is the Gallery Shoppe. As the name implies, it is where you can buy unique gifts such as ceramic, pottery, glass, iron and wood works. It also houses the works of Filipino contemporary artists , which you can buy at a reasonable price. The prices may vary depending on the contributing artists, so you will need to coordinate with the museum if you are interested to buy.

THE SILANGAN GARDENS

Walking towards the galleries is an amusing experience as you get the opportunity to walk through the  Dr. Joeven Cuanang, Silangan Gardens. 

The gardens allows you to sit around to read a good book.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

You can also enjoy art work around the garden.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

Dr. Cuanang was the former medical director of St. Luke’s Medical Center in Bonifacio Global City, where he was known as a tree planting advocate. When he first moved in, the area was just flat and barren land but Dr. Cuanang transformed it into a vast garden where a lot of trees and plants are being well taken care of.

Pinto: Mother Nature
This is a pregnant woman made of steel. Look closely to see her fetus.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

Pinto: Narcissus
The sculpture that stares into the water to appreciate his own beauty.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN 

Enjoy many works of art while strolling through the gardens.
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Another beautiful piece of artwork found in the gardens.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

THE GALLERIES

The collections inside the galleries are so extensive that any art enthusiast would easily be left in awe. From paintings to wood sculptures and contemporary steel pieces, each gallery offers a touch of international artistry. 

One of the pieces of artwork that greet you as you enter the gallery.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

Another display piece that will welcome visitors to the gallery.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

The feel inside the gallery is just an overflow of passion and love for the arts. Each art piece was created with hard work and proudly presented to the visitors. Here are some of the art pieces that you can find in Gallery 1 and Gallery 2:

Pinto: The Mirror of Erised
If you are a Harry Potter fan, you might like to step in front of it.
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN 

Pinto: The Sculpture with Branches
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Pinto: Boombox Alien
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

Pinto: Mending A Broken Heart?
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

One of the areas that is not to be missed is the ‘FOREST.’ If you want to enjoy the feeling and sound of the forest at night, then step in to this dark room where the only thing you can here are drips of water. It is recommended that you turn your mobile phone on silent mode to ensure that you can be one with nature.

Pinto: The Disappearing Man
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

Pinto: The Sex Gallery
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The museum also features a coffee shop where you can enjoy a light snack. The Pinto Café is currently being managed by Bizu, one of the popular restaurant chains of metro Manila.

Pinto: The Last Structure
Copyright Photo: travelling_bk/PFN

So if you want to take a break from the busy schedules of the metro, head to the Pinto Art Gallery where you can appreciate and experience art and nature as you indulge in the calm and serenity of the environment. 

The Pinto Art Gallery is located at Number 1, Sierra Madre St., Grand Heights, Antipolo City, Rizal, Philippines. They are open from Wednesdays to Sundays, with gallery hours from 9am to 6pm. They also offer special tours by appointment.