Beatitudes: My Journey through Pameran Poskad 2024
The Pameran Poskad exhibition is more than just an art show—it's a community celebration of creativity. This weeklong event invites artists to contribute up to 10 postcard-sized artworks, which are displayed and available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds going to charity. Anyone can participate by paying a fee, making it an inclusive and vibrant artistic experience.
This was my second year participating, and... completing 10 artworks was nothing short of a marathon! As the deadline approached, I found myself racing against time, but I made it! Thank God for providing the inspiration and strength in the nick of time!
The Beatitudes: A Botanical Interpretation
Inspired by Matthew 5:3-12, I created a series of artworks that connect each beatitude with a unique plant, exploring spiritual truths through nature's metaphors:
v3. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Plant: Variegated Monstera A heart-shaped leaf, patchy and imperfect, with intricate holes—symbolizing being poor in spirit and acknowledging our need for God.
v4. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
Plant: Weeping Willow Its cascading branches embody the depth of grief and the promise of comfort.
v5. "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth."
Plant: Moringa An unassuming yet incredibly generous plant, representing quiet strength and inherent worth.
v6. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."
Plant: Sugarcane Thirst-quenching and edible—a reminder that spiritual hunger can be truly satisfied.
v7. "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
Plant: Pothos A forgiving plant that springs back to life (when I remember to water it!)
v8. "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
Plant: White Phalaenopsis Its white petals remind me of purity and the truth revealed when we believe in Him.
v9. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."
Plant: Olive Though not local, this has been a timeless symbol of peace
v10. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Plant: Crown of Thorns A red flower with a thorny stem—reminding me of the persecution Jesus faced on the cross for us.
v11. "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you..."
Plant: Durian Love it or hate it, this polarizing fruit represents the reality of being misunderstood.
Beyond the Artwork
These beatitudes challenge our worldview. In a world that often prioritizes strength, success, and self-preservation, these teachings can seem naive or impossible. Yet, in creating this series, I found a profound reminder to rest in God's character and promises.
Pameran Poskad 2024 Exhibition Details
- Dates: 3-8 December 2024
- Location: Level 4, ION Art Gallery
If you have the chance, I highly recommend visiting. While my artworks are no longer on display (sold postcards are taken down), the sheer variety of art is incredible, and there's something amazing about seeing people from all walks of life come together through creativity.