Filipino-American artist Jefre Manuel Figueras, best known for his artistic nom de plume Jefre, has unveiled a deeply moving tribute to the 49 lives lost during the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, in June 2016. His poignant artwork, titled 49 Angels, captures the essence of remembrance and transformation, honoring the victims through a powerful and vibrant display.
The sculpture features 49 angels, each symbolizing a victim of the tragedy, gracefully transforming into a flame. This transformation embodies their enduring legacy and the light they brought into the world. Jefre masterfully incorporates the energy of a rainbow into the angel wings, forming a vibrant flame that radiates all the colors of the rainbow. This flame symbolizes the diversity and beauty of the lives lost. The name of each victim is embedded within the flame, to be honored and remembered forever.
“The Pulse Nightclub tragedy was a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. This happening on Pride Month, nonetheless, made it even more devastating for everyone in the community,” said the artist. “49 Angels is my way of honoring those we lost because of the senseless violence that happened that night and reaffirming our collective commitment to creating a more inclusive world.”
The unveiling of the sculpture, which took place in time for Pride Month and the anniversary of the tragedy, was led by Cheryl Grieb, the commission chair of Osceola County, where the tribute will be situated. Grieb shared that she was asked by families of the victims to “have a special place in Osceola County,” where the still grieving families can go to pay respects to their loved ones whom they lost in the Pulse tragedy.
“Originally, we wanted to create a tribute mural but found an opportunity to engage with celebrated artist Jefre,” said Grieb. “As many of you know, he has created some of the most iconic works in Central Florida and worldwide and has graciously volunteered his time to create an iconic work of art.”
She also revealed that Jefre was originally engaged with the victims’ families and was part of a memorial panel back in 2016. “We’re excited to have him as part of the team and to share the artwork,” she added.
During the day, the colors of the rainbow will reflect across the park, representing the vibrant lives of the victims. At night, the tribute transforms as the angel wings turn into an eternal flame that beams a light up to the sky, symbolizing their everlasting presence and guiding light.
Despite the tragedy happening in Orlando, the tribute will be located in Osceola County at Brown Weiss Park on the beautiful Lake Toho. Notably, the county is home to over 20 percent of the victims. 49 Angels will be situated in the center of a garden with wildflowers arranged in a heart shape and surrounded by arbor trees that symbolize the first responders and the survivors of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy.
More than an artwork, Jefre’s creation serves as a beacon of love and resilience, ensuring that the memories of these individuals continue to shine brightly. 49 Angels stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the lives lost and a reminder of the strength found in unity and remembrance.