NAGA CITY (PIA) – Fifty-seven (57) artists collaborated to put into life 398 artistic creations during the 46th Chan Lim Art Exhibit held Saturday, June 24 at SM City Naga Activity Center, here.

Dubbed “Blooming in Chinese Arts and Culture,” the display of Chinese and Western painting which was formally opened to the public on June 24, will last for 25 days. 

SM City Naga Mall Manager Jeanette De Vera extended her appreciation to the Lim family for always choosing SM Supermalls as a venue for their art exhibits.

Chan Lim and artists' masterpieces

The artwork varies from paintings etched in plates, canvas, scrolls, fans, and lanterns.

They are all expressed in deep, vibrant colors, and detailed brush strokes executed in watercolors in captivating subjects like flowers, nature, animals, and symbolic representations. 

The masterpieces though, are not for sale.

“The main focus is not to sell the artworks. The main focus is to share our artwork to most people. That’s also why we chose SM, kasi malaki ang reach eh, from A to D, kahit sino, pwede. The focus is not to sell, but to share this wonderful culture that we have,” Alex Lim, one of the children of Chan Lim explained.

Regarding its distinction from traditional Chinese artwork, Alex Lim remarked, “Tradition Chinese painting kasi is puro black and white. Ngayon may kulay na. Kumbaga sa TV, colored TV na ngayon, dati black and white lang. The most important thing is to share this culture. What we want to promote is the beauty of the painting. Ito yung unique. Ano ba meron dito na wala noon? It’s a combination of all na. How we used the colors, how we used the technique,” the young Lim added.

Aside from the traditional dance rendered by students of Naga Hope Christian School and Saint Joseph School, the audience, including members of the media was treated to a free painting workshop, assisted by no less than Alex Chan and the artists themselves.

“To everyone, we hope you enjoy the visual feast that we have prepared for you. These will be on display until July 18, Tuesday,” De Vera said.  (PIA 5/ Camarines Sur)