After mounting her very first art installation Portraits of Christ in Intramuros, Manila, “Artist on a Mission” Kristine Lim transformed the exhibit into something more thought-provoking, and intriguing to coincide with the Holy Week celebration.
As a missionary visual artist, known for being bold and unapologetic when it comes to having no dissociation between her art and her faith, she evolved Portraits of Christ into its sequel she calls Tetelestai. According to the artist, “it is a personal reminder for a sinner like me, who keeps on failing and falling in the mundane, to ask the Lord to help my unbelief.”
“It is a personal reflection I want to extend to others who are also going through life’s adversities. I pray we always find that confidence in Him to overcome our fears, insecurities, and uncertainties. We must live a life that’s completely free because we are forgiven through the Love that’s beyond what our mind and hearts can conceive,” she added.
Creating a deeper experience for the art installation is the musical score composed by ABS-CBN Music’s creative director Jonathan Manalo.
“Tetelestai is an apt reminder that we all need. I’m grateful that the Lord allowed for such a beautifully breathtaking yet bold and brave art installation to be mounted in a very timely season. This has been inspiring and honoring for both me and Kristine for we know it is what we are called to do for this very specific moment, especially for the country,” Manalo said of the installation.
According to Lim, Manalo’s music was able to capture the soul and spirit of her artwork and visitors will be able to communicate with the Divine through wordless interactions. She believes deeply rooted and honest emotions and even prayers are articulated in such ways. Most of the time, no words are perfect to equate and suffice their full expression.
The vernissage of Tetelestai was held last April 9 at Molito Lifestyle Center Alabang. It was attended by heads of Art Lounge Manila led by their owner and managing director, Susanne DS Tiausas, leaders of New Life Christian Center, and executives of Molito Lifestyle Center. Lim and Manalo were not present during the event but both were able to record on video their messages. Celine Tojos attended on behalf of the duo and read both their remarks during the event.
Tetelestai exhibit is on view at the Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier, Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila until today. It is presented by the Department of Tourism, It’s More Fun In The Philippines, Intramuros Administration, and Art Lounge Manila.
It was also showcased at Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang from April 10 to 17. The installation was in collaboration with New Life Christian Center, Art Lounge Manila, and Molito Lifestyle Center.