Local artist and oil painter Sharon Van’s (温雪嫻) “Zodiac With You” exhibition, which is on display through October 31, celebrates the connections made over a lifetime, using oil paintings to blend animals and humans as symbols of different life stages.
Held daily at 10 Fantasia’s Gallery C03 on Calçada da Igreja de S. Lázaro (瘋堂斜巷) from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on Mondays) with free admission, the exhibition draws on the theme of the Chinese zodiac, with each of the 11 animals and one mythical creature – the Dragon – representing different qualities of life, according to the information board at the gallery.
Exhibitiongoers are invited to reflect on personal relationships and experiences, including the perceived wit of the Rat, resilience of the Ox, and compassion of the Sheep, according to the information board’s text. Van’s work, which was developed through nearly eight years of oil painting, combines portraits, animals, and landscapes to express emotions linked to her personal and professional journey, the text adds.
The exhibition honours those who have accompanied her through life, particularly during her time in social work, the text says, adding that each zodiac sign’s symbolic qualities are poetically reborn through vibrant colours, aiming to create a rich visual tribute to life’s companions.
The exhibition aims to provide the opportunity to experience Van’s artistic tribute with the exhibits on display for nearly two months, the text points out, adding that art lovers are encouraged to visit and immerse themselves in the emotive power of the artwork.
Photos: Khalel Vallo
