Cover One of S-Ann Ch’i’s works to be auctioned at the Pink Ribbon Ball in London this November 9 (Photo: Instagram / @sann_chi)
One of S-Ann Ch’i’s works to be auctioned at the Pink Ribbon Ball in London this November 9 (Photo: Instagram / @sann_chi)
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Helping to fund medical research and other endeavours of the Breast Cancer Now organisation, UK’s leading breast cancer charity, abstract expressionist from the Philippines S-Ann Ch’i presents her works at the silent auction
Following the success of her recent exhibition for a cause at The Foundry for CARE International UK titled “Love is the whole thing. We are only pieces”, abstract expressionist S-Ann Ch’i from the Philippines continues her philanthropic mission through the power of art by participating in the annual ball held by Breast Cancer Now in London.
Titled “Sunshine, Optimism and Happiness”, the art exhibition and silent auction features some S-Ann Ch’i’s latest gestural works in an effort to raise funds to support Breast Cancer Now’s world-class research and life-changing support. This year’s Pink Ribbon Ball of the Breast Cancer Now takes place on November 9, Saturday, at the Hilton London Bankside, gathering guests and friends of the organisation to an evening filled with fundraising opportunities, entertainment and poignant reminders of the importance of this cause.
Read more: The Fight Against the Big C: How the Philippines is revolutionising breast cancer care
Above Abstract expressionist S-Ann Ch’i was a biomedical scientist who uses her art to make a difference in her own little way
Abstract expressionist S-Ann Ch’i was a biomedical scientist who uses her art to make a difference in her own little way
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“Since 2010, we have been reaching out to and supporting several charitable organisations, as well as starting several project of our own,” says S-Ann Ch’i, recalling how she and her better half, Brian Uhing, made it important to use their artistic talent and influence to do altruistic pursuits. “Offering help goes hand-in-hand with our art, our relationship with each other and the way we choose to grow as human beings. Philanthropy is not a hobby but a logical way to exist,” she emphasises.
As an artist couple hailed from the Philippines, the Uhings have made it into the international art market throughout their careers. But perhaps S-Ann Chi’s background as a bio-medical scientist propelled her to participate in charity auctions that revolve around medical research and humanitarian assistance.
Read more: Brian Uhing and S-Ann Ch’i: Explore the colourful world of this visual artist couple
Above Titled ‘Sunshine, Optimism and Happiness’, the exhibition and auction at the Pink Ribbon Ball is for the benefit of the Breast Cancer Now organisation
Above Titled ‘Sunshine, Optimism and Happiness’, the exhibition and auction at the Pink Ribbon Ball is for the benefit of the Breast Cancer Now organisation
Titled ‘Sunshine, Optimism and Happiness’, the exhibition and auction at the Pink Ribbon Ball is for the benefit of the Breast Cancer Now organisation
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Sunshine, Optimism and Happiness, is not merely a title for S-Ann Ch’i but a “mantra of truth”, she shares. “A way of traversing through life and this world. I believe that we all have a fundamental responsibility to do whatever good we can, while we can,” she says.
Also this November, the Choose Love Foundation is mounting an exhibition and art auction of S’Ann Ch’i in London, titled “Grateful Hearts”.
“I feel this overflowing abundance of love! For my life, family, and all the things that I have achieved in my lifetime so far! And to work with all the wonderful people of Choose Love seems only fitting for the show to be titled ‘grateful hearts’,” the artist shares.
Above International artist couple S-Ann Ch’i and Brian Uhing
International artist couple S-Ann Ch’i and Brian Uhing
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Meanwhile, the artist couple will have a joint exhibition and auction from November 18 to 25 for the Go Gold Gala Auction in Beltsville, Maryland, United States, also for the benefit of children diagnosed with cancer. The exhibition, titled “Hearts Doors Wide Open,” is lifted from a poem by their favourite Persian poet, Jalaludin Rumi, who they describe as one who uses the simplest of words to convey the most profound truths.
“Brian and I have always felt that it is our responsibility as human beings to do what we can to make this world better than how we found it. Our recipe to life has been: give your idea of love out to the world and you will experience love. The same goes for happiness! In this day and age, so many claim to be living in a lost world. Time to create a new vision of it. All reality starts from an idea,” S-Ann Chi’i explains.
Incredible pieces of S-Ann Chi’s gestural abstractions and Uhing’s surrealist portraits will be seen in this show. S-Ann Chi’s art explores the relationship and commitment to process, material, form, and colour, which makes her evocative works exude a sense of harmony and balance in movement and experimentation. Meanwhile, Uhing’s art is reminiscent of the Dutch Old Masters works but is very contemporary, with a touch of humour and symbolism, representing our humanness—both the fragility and the potential.
“Helping has always been our passion. Even more so when children are involved! We have heard of the great work that the American childhood cancer organisation has been doing in support of children with cancer, as well as doing further research, raising awareness and more. We feel privileged to be able to use our art to lend any support we can to this amazing organisation,” S-Ann Ch’i shares.
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
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Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
