The exhibit showcases traditional Chinese Art painted in scrolls, umbrellas, and lanterns arranged in an immersive tunnel where the paintings come to life with the help of AI.  Photos courtesy of SM Supermalls
LIFE

Chan Lim art exhibit back at SM City Santo Tomas, Batangas

DT

SM City Santo Tomas is hosting the 51st exhibit of the Chan Lim Family of Artists and Painters, running from 26 January to 16 February 2025. This year’s showcase highlights Chinese New Year through a blend of traditional art and modern AI technology.

Held at the Atrium of SM City Santo Tomas, the exhibit offers visitors an immersive experience into Chinese cultural heritage. A key feature is the Garden Sensory Tunnel, where live animations of artwork create a visually engaging display, reflecting the evolving relationship between art and technology.

Present at the balloon-popping ceremony for the exhibit opening are Dr. Alex Chan Lim (2nd from left), who started the family art tradition. With him is SM Supermalls’ Area Head - SAVP for Marketing Operations - Ritzgerald T. Gonzales, Group Head - EVP for Marketing - Joaquin L. San Agustin, and Regional Operations Head- Mall Operations Juan Marius C. Cortez. (L-R)
This 15 foot scroll was painted by the Chan Lim family in three generations, showcasing beautiful lakes around the world in one magnificent landscape.

Dr. Alex Chan Lim, representing the Chan Lim family, attended the event and shared insights into their mission of preserving Chinese culture through art. The exhibit features 60 intricately designed lanterns, 140 hand-painted umbrellas, and 83 scrolls, showcasing the family’s craftsmanship and storytelling through detailed brushwork and vibrant colors.

The Garden Sensory Tunnel is set to invite art enthusiasts to explore the wonders of every stroke in motion
Every umbrella tells a different story. From blooming flowers to feisty dragons, every piece and subject were painted with intricacy.
Transcending all ages, these captivating art pieces delight shoppers to immerse in the stories each of these crafts tell.

Students from Inosluban-Marawoy Integrated National High School and National University were invited to explore the exhibit, providing them with an opportunity to experience traditional painting techniques alongside technological innovations. This initiative aims to inspire young artists to appreciate and sustain cultural art forms in contemporary contexts.

Visitors can explore the Chan Lim Art Exhibit until 16 February 2025.

Chan Lim’s family of artists and students passionately passing down the passion of creating traditional Chinese painting through proper color mixing.
Students from Inosluban Marawoy Integrated National High School were taught how to do proper strokes in creating watercolor paintings during the free art workshop.
Excited to keep tradition alive, Dr. Alex Chan Lim and his family pose with students proudly showed off their paintings after the workshop.