If you’re working in Makati, here’s one reason to take a long lunch hour: Yuchengco Museum recently opened the Water Dragon Gallery, a split-level venue at the second floor where Pinoy artists and designers can stage their own exhibits and sell their art.

Visitors will get to see a new artist featured every two weeks, as well as a series of solo, group, and thematic shows. Long-time buyers and first-time collectors will also get to examine and purchase photographs, prints, paintings, jewelry, and sculptures.

The Water Dragon Gallery debuts with two simultaneous shows.  One is a 27-print exhibit by members of the Philippine Association of Printmakers, featuring Ambie Abaño, Charito Bitanga, Benjie Cabangis, Noell El Farol, Gig de Pio, Raul Isidro, Ojeng Jocano, Mario Parial, Adi Baens Santos, and Ronald Ventura, among others. Nature-inspired jewelry and home decor by Davao-based designer Ann Tiukinhoy Pamintuan are also on exhibit.

Shows run until February 26, 2009.

The Water Dragon Gallery is located at the second floor of the Yuchengco Museum at the RCBC Plaza, corner Ayala and Gil Puyat Avenues in Makati City. Gallery hours are Mondays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission prices are P100 for adults, P50 for students 15 years and above, and P25 for children and senior citizens. For inquiries, call (+632) 889 1234 or e-mail thewaterdragon@yuchengcomuseum.org.

Photo: “Deterioration” by Ronald Ventura

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