One week since we opened my first solo exhibit at ARTablado, Robinsons Galleria... it's been physically and mentally exhausting; but it's also emotionally and spiritually uplifting!
January 16 was scheduled as our ingress at 5am and as our Artist Reception at 4pm. We were to transport 55 artworks ranging from 9x12 inches to 3x3 feet. It was all hands on deck for my family (who all lacked sleep) and it was raining so hard at 5am. Weeks toward the event have already been challenging and filled with tears. That day felt like one final push. Was it really worth it?
My exhibit title is "Yadah to the King: Celebration through art and music" because I wanted to give God the honor for all that He has done and He's still continuing to do in my life. I can't imagine staying silent and depriving others of the hope and inspiration that helped me go on through the years. It was risky because the message I'd like to share through my art is not always welcome everywhere and to everyone. It was scary because, after battling in my heart if this is worth it, what if I realize that it's not if my exhibit will flop?
On January 16, under the heavy rain, it took us more than an hour to load the artworks in the van. My dad and my brother, both soaked in rain water, helped each other carry the boxes from my studio to the van (about 2-minute walk). My mom and sister, both stayed at the door and the gate, to assist with steps and to pray. I was in my studio adjusting the packaging to protect the paintings from getting wet. I honestly felt like crying as the memory of all the struggles (I really wish I could share everything) flashed back; but the adrenaline was too much.
As the rain started to stop and the sun started to shine, my brother carried the final and biggest piece. My brother carried it in a way that the painting was facing us and as if parading with boldness and power. This was the piece...
This is "King" (version 9).
This painting is a representation of Jesus Christ, as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, as the King of kings and Lord of lords, as the One who has ultimate power and authority over all creation.
When my brother "paraded" this as the final piece, we felt in awe. It's as if we have conquered a battle and our king was marching in victory. It's as if He was saying "Take heart; I got this. I got this."
We felt peace and comfort.
Lions...
Majestic & beautiful. Powerful and mighty. Bold and fearless. But also gentle and affectionate. And whether in action or at rest, no one can deny a lion’s authority and strength. His presence is both trembling and captivating.
And when I saw “Lion King” and “Chronicles of Narnia”, I became more amazed as to how this king of the jungle reminds me of the One True King and how He loves and sees me. With that, I know I’ll always be safe.
May this remind you to let the King take His stage and so you can claim your place.
PS: You can view some of my artworks in this page. I still have not uploaded about 50+ artworks from my solo exhibit. :D