A noteworthy painting by Emmanuel Garibay, Kapengkape is not the usual Garibay composition imbued with powerful critiques of our prevailing social, economic, and political conditions. According to the artist, he was inspired to do the work after the stimulating sensation of drinking coffee. Garibay, a self-confessed coffee drinker, says that he consumes coffee frequently, particularly before embarking on another work of art or even while painting. When asked about his go-to drink, Garibay professed his fondness for Arabica coffee, which he says he loves for its distinct aroma. He even humorously followed this statement that his own golden rule for drinking coffee is “no sugar and creamer.”
Beyond its personal value for Garibay, Kapengkape is a reminder of the gravitas that rest and relaxation hold, that from time to time, we must take a needed interlude of peace and quiet to bounce back from the vicissitudes of today’s living. However poignant it may be, the piece offers a gleaming hope of redeeming another day that is inherently imbued with struggles yet puts forward a promise that is fulfilling and transformative. Sometimes, all we need is a refreshing and invigorating cup of coffee (no sugar or creamer for Garibay!). (Adrian Maranan)