Emmanuel Garibay (b. 1962)
Clown with Lamps
signed (lower left)
oil on canvas
24" x 24" (61 cm x 61 cm)







Although the renowned Filipino artist Emmanuel Garibay is often known for Social Realist depictions of everyday Filipino life, the artist sometimes produces works that are relatively more metaphorical. In Clowns with Lamps, Garibay presents us with an unusual amalgamation of elements. Though still utilizing his iconic style both his subjects and his palette seemingly imparts a humorous and ironic theme and message. Found in this piece is Garibay’s use of icons and symbols as well. In his other works, the artist often uses the clown motif as a satirical device, while the lamp is a common metaphorical device found in Philippine literature that is used to denote the farcical nature of society. Emmanuel Garibay is a native of Kidapawan, North Cotabato by a father who worked as a pastor in a Methodist church and a mother who worked in the city engineer’s office. His family moved to Davao city where he spent a majority of his formative years. Garibay showed a firm grasp in drawing and painting due to his mother's guidance and encouragement. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of the Philippines - Los Baños before taking up formal artistic training through a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of the Philippines - Diliman. But despite a shift in interest, Garibay's background in Sociology is apparent through his depictions of everyday Filipino life through a Social-Realist lens. Drawing upon his inspirations such as de Koonig, Beauchamp, Malang, Alcuaz, Saguil, Dalena and Saguil, Garibay eventually developed a uniquely personal style that greatly influenced the generation of contemporary Filipino artists that succeeded him. (J.D.)