Pinto Art Museum is one of the place you shouldn’t missed if you’re visiting Antipolo City in the Province of Rizal.
Deceiving as it may seem at the outside, this white colored brick house covered with greens looks like an ordinary hacienda in the village. But wait till you open the small metal door (pinto) that will bring you to a 1.3 hectare of space full of greens, art collections, and structures. A scene that brings me to my childhood years re-imagining the famous cartoon series called “Secret Garden” or also known in the Philippines as “Si Mary at ang Lihim Hardin”, but finally found it in reality through “Pinto Art Museum”.
Pinto Art Museum has been a haven to photo enthusiasts since its opening. It is part of Silangan Gardens located in 1 Sierra Madre St. Grand Heights, Antipolo, Rizal. Inside, you’ll find Museum shop, galleries, gardens, Chapel, Café, a theater that is managed by El Refugio Arts and Sciences Foundation Inc., and just recently a school for the arts/healing.
Neurologist, Dr. Joven Cuanang, acquired this house and lot in the 70s and opened the gallery around 2000. Since then, continuous expansion has been made making this place a must see venue in the Antipolo. Also, a favorite photo shoot spot by photographers.
For Photoshoot Rates and How to commute do check out this post — > Commuting Guide to Pinto Art Museum.
I have been to this place for quite some time, the first one was for the taping of my previous TV show called Bread n’ Butter, which yours truly hosted. The second was a TV shoot for a short video starring Isabel Oli and JC De Vera, it was set in the 80s. And I guess this was the third for personal satisfaction.
At least now, it’s not work related and I can just leisurely enjoy everything. The place has grown from what I have seen before and opened up new galleries and areas like the cafés. Some parts haven’t change but other areas are a bit creepy.
A friend of mine is living just a trike away from the place so we decided to do an overnight stay in their house. The whole afternoon of the next day was spent in Pinto Art Museum. Overnight I marathon Netflix Original “Stranger Things.”
If you’re coming from Cubao,
Here’s how easy it is to go to Pinto Art Museum.
Entrance Fee is categorized in to three; Adult pays a fix Php 200, while Students pays Php 100 and Senior Citizens pays Php180, both with proper identification. Children below 3 years old got a free access. And if you’re bringing a car, you can park your vehicle along the street across the museum.
The Cafe Restaurant which is located near the entrance is now open and is operated by Peppermill Restaurant. Customers got an option to either stay inside the gallery turned to café or commune with nature on the outside tables.
Located at the left side from the entrance, you’ll find the house of the Dr. Cuanang. The house is off limits but you can still enjoy the large crystal blue pool outside that nicely compliment the greens. Going at the second floor, you’ll be able to get a nice view of Ortigas skyline.
The place is large and a day would be enough to explore everything. Getting lost isn’t really easy too, for there are signage’s that will help you navigate your way. At the lower area, you’ll find another place where you can dine and eat. I didn’t bother to get the price of the food for I wasn’t really planning of dining when I visited.
Also: Food Posts here.
I actually love that they have white chairs and beds scattered in the area. As in white beds where you can lay down and rest perfect after having a long walk. There are newly opened galleries too at the far end that are categorized based on the style and medium. Oh and you should not missed the secret door at the hallway located in between two galleries. You’ll be surprised to see what’s inside (For the mature visitors only).
Pinto Art Museum also expanded its services to not just hosting weddings and events. They also by cater students with their newly opened school for the arts/healing. I just don’t know if the school is officially accepting students but I could say this is really such a nice peaceful place to study.
Thanks Edward for the photos. Here’s a few tips to remember when visiting Pinto.
Useful Tips When Visiting Pinto Art Museum
- Pinto is usually closed on Mondays (except holidays or special occasions) and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00am to 6:00 pm.
- Guided tour is also available that would last for two hours.
- NO food or pets allowed.
- NO flash Photography.
- Smoking is also strictly prohibited inside the museum.
- It is better to not bring to much stuff when entering, but If inevitable, they offer baggage counter inside.
