Established in 2007 by artist and jewelry designer Annie Chen, 856G initially started out as a conventional gallery focusing on promoting Cebuano artists as well as dealing Filipino masters. It has since moved beyond this model and has taken on multiple roles as a project space, cultural center and most recently a residency.

Being only one of two galleries in a metropolitan area of over 2.5 million people with no contemporary institutions 856G has recognized the need for it to perform as more than just a white cube but rather a space that fosters a community around creativity.