The Qi

Medium: Granite stone from Northern Ireland, copper nugget, gold-gilt capiz shell, emerald, triangular fire opal, sterling silver, and carnelian
Dimensions: Approx. 13x15x13.5 cm
Provenance: Courtesy of the Artist, United Kingdom
Exhibition History: Newry Library, Northern Ireland
Artist: Lili Marjorie H. Gualberto
Estimate: For valuation / Unique Work

Curatorial Statement:

The Qi is a symbolic sculptural artwork expressing the artist's interpretation of the inner strength that resides within every individual. It reflects the belief that true strength is forged through hardship and that every person possesses the capacity to rise above suffering while remaining true to their values.

The sculpture's materials reflect this journey of transformation: grounded in a granite stone from Northern Ireland, the work symbolises stability, endurance, and strength shaped by time and pressure, a copper nugget represents life energy, an emerald symbolises wisdom and renewal, a gold-gilt capiz shell signifies wealth and prosperity, and a fire opal embodies passion, conviction and the power to overcome life's greatest adversities. Bound together with sterling silver wire, representing unity and resilience, and set with a carnelian symbolising courage and ethical action, these elements create a unified expression of the enduring human spirit.

The sculpture is inspired by the life of Josephine Bracken, whose journey was marked by profound loss, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve. From the death of her mother at birth and a childhood of abuse to her relationship with Dr. José Rizal, whom she married only hours before his execution, Bracken endured extraordinary hardship. Yet she transformed suffering into compassion, caring for the wounded and supporting the Katipunan in the fight against colonial rule.