Veteran sculptress Julie Lluch said she considered terra cotta a medium linked to the sensuous and fulfilling act of creation, as many of the Creation stories speak of humanity being formed from clay.

At 73, she looks back to a life of art and beauty: “What good has it done me, all this beauty? Does beauty make us better people? And paraphrasing Dostoevsky, does art really save the world? Or does all art, end up as junk?”

These questions are tackled in “Irresistible Grace,” which is Galerie Stephanie’s offering for Art Fair Philippines 2020. Gallery director Abby Frias-Teotico said she considered the collaboration with the top sculptress “a high point” and “a rare opportunity” to showcase the works of a pioneering woman artist.

“Julie Lluch has had exhibitions which focused on women and patriarchy since the 1980s, and her voice has never wavered,” said Frias-Teotico. “She has explored themes of sexuality, intimacy and religion, with wit and grace. She is among the most important artists that we have, and she is always relevant.”

The exhibit features more than 20 works in cold cast marble created from casts, maquettes, models and reproductions of her works. Ever the activist, Lluch delivers a commentary on the many layers she fulfills at present—as woman, mother, grandmother, Filipino, artist and Christian. With over 70 square meters, her installation is among the largest solo artist exhibitions mounted by a gallery in this year’s fair. Exhibition is curated by Ricky Francisco. —CONTRIBUTED INQ

Art Fair Philippines, Feb. 21-23, The Link, Ayala Center, Makati City. Galerie Stephanie, 4/F, East Wing, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City. Tel. 79405726