Keziah Kitsche's artistic style is a vibrant tapestry woven with bright, warm, sunny colors, informed by the development of her original characters, which possess a distinct illustrative quality.
In her debut solo exhibition, "Memento Mori, Memento Vivere," Keziah conveys a profound message encapsulated in its Latin translation: 'remember you must die, remember that you must live.' This theme, explored from various angles, encourages viewers to confront nihilistic thoughts like "life sucks, why bother," and consider embracing the preciousness of every moment. It serves as a poignant reminder not to be consumed by life's trivialities but to fully savor everything it has to offer.
Central to Keziah's artistic universe are her beloved characters, collectively known as Kiko. Kiko is short for Pakiko, a play on the Filipino phrase "Pake ko" (I don't care). These floral personas, often portrayed in characteristically Millennial selfie poses, symbolize resilience and the vibrant essence of human expression. They serve as allegorical figures, reflecting the artist's ethos and zest for life.
A standout in the exhibition is Kitsche's "Life" series, which explores diverse facets of human experience. "Life: Philophobia" delves into the fear of falling in love; "Life: Not Today Universe" embodies resistance against adversity, and "Life: With You" celebrates meaningful connections, highlighting the value of companionship and support.
Memento Mori, 2024
48 x 36 in
Acrylic on Canvas
The centerpiece of the show, "Memento Mori," features three Kikos triumphantly surrounding a skull. This work epitomizes Kitsche's artistic vision, blending whimsy with profound reflection. The carefree expressions of her characters reinforce her message: life is fleeting, so enjoy it fully and without hesitation.
Keziah's message is simple: "I want to remind everyone not to take life so seriously." Her use of color and the emotions evoked in her work offer a visually and emotionally compelling experience, leaving a sense of lightness despite touching on the inevitability of death.
In "Memento Mori, Memento Vivere," the artist reminds us that despite life's transient nature, much like flowers, we too have the choice to bloom wherever we are planted.
Text by Marz Aglipay
Ego is the Enemy, 2024
24 x 36 in
Acrylic on Canvas
In 'Ego is the Enemy,' Keziah Kitsche depicts a serene Kiko character with its finger raised and holding a cheerful mushroom figure. This composition symbolizes the act of overcoming ego to lead a more fulfilling life. The vibrant, warm palette and peaceful expression encourage viewers to embrace humility and self-awareness for inner peace.
Seize the Day, 2024
24 x 36 in
Acrylic on Canvas
In 'Seize the Day,' Keziah Kitsche portrays a meditative Kiko flower embodying a message of mindfulness and the joy of living in the moment. The multiple hands in a serene pose symbolize inner peace and the harmony that comes with embracing the present.
Life: Philophobia, 2024
24 x 24 in
Acrylic on Canvas
'Life: Philophobia' captures the essence of philophobia, the fear of falling in love, emphasizing how this fear can entangle us and prevent us from experiencing deep, meaningful connections. The piece speaks to the delicate balance between vulnerability and self-protection.
Life: With You, 2024
24 x 24 in
Acrylic on Canvas
'Life: With You' reflects the profound impact of supportive relationships, emphasizing how we or others can illuminate and thrive when given the right encouragement. This piece celebrates the uplifting power of connection and love.
Life: The Unknown, 2024
24 x 24 in
Acrylic on Canvas
'Life: The Unknown' symbolizes the anxiety of encountering the unfamiliar, which can hinder our progress and experiences. The piece reminds us that sometimes, what we fear can turn out to be beautiful and transformative, much like a butterfly.
Life: Not Today Universe, 2024
24 x 24 in
Acrylic on Canvas
'Life: Not Today Universe' reflects a Kiko flower's tenacity, with its entangled stem and unapologetic attitude. This piece conveys a powerful message of resistance and the courage to carve out a personal path, regardless of life's difficulties.
Such is Life 01, 2024
12 x 18 in
Acrylic on Canvas
'Such is Life 01' depicts the tragic fate of Kiko flowers picked from the ground to be given as a bouquet. With emotions ranging from anger and fear to death, the artwork highlights the inevitable loss of vibrancy and control in life, rendered in somber tones with a touch of color.
Such is Life 02, 2024
12 x 18 in
Acrylic on Canvas
In 'Such is Life 02,' the once lively Kiko flowers are now in a state of lifelessness, save for one bored and waiting. The muted colors and minimalistic palette urge viewers to contemplate how they can actively reclaim their energy and make impactful choices rather than resigning to a passive existence.
"Memento Mori, Memento Vivere" is on display at The Grey Space Gallery in 331 P. Guevarra St, San Juan, Metro Manila from July 6 to 27, 2024.
For inquiries on the pieces, you may send an e-mail to thegreyspaceph@gmail.com or visit the collection on their webpage here.