Self-taught visual artist Rachel Anne Lacaba drew inspiration from the depths of her soul to craft intricate works that resonate with raw emotion and profound contemplation at her fifth solo exhibition, “Muni-Muni.” 

Displayed at the Pinto Art Museum, the exhibit offered an honest exploration of the collective psychological, emotional, and spiritual turmoil that she and others had experienced. Lacaba’s art serves as a medium for understanding and embracing emotions, positive or negative.

“My recent show was somewhat personal. It was about recognizing the beauty and value of emotions and feelings which perhaps we shouldn’t invalidate or dismiss as insignificant. It’s important for us to feel them,” says Lacaba. 

The creative process behind “Muni-Muni” involved conversations with friends and loved ones while she painted. “I started the work by talking to friends every day while painting. I talked to them via Messenger, exchanging thoughts and ideas, sharing experiences and life’s traumas,” she said.

Colors also play a pivotal role in Lacaba’s art, which draws viewers in with vibrant palettes. She chooses colors that align with the mood of each painting and chooses shades that evoke the specific emotions she feels while creating a piece of art. 

“My works offer viewers raw and honest reflection of the human condition, inviting the viewers to explore their own inner landscapes and confront the complexities of existence. It’s probably up to the viewers what they want to feel when looking at my works, but I hope that they unveil truths, offer answers, or at the very least, provide comfort. Perhaps they can relate or feel something else entirely. Maybe [the artwork] will also leave them with questions in their mind,” she says. 

Among the pieces on exhibit, Alingawngaw stood out as an emotional exploration of life and death. “It is about the value of life. All of us will experience losing loved ones, whether they’re pets or cherished individuals. We will all feel sadness, anger, and happiness. This artwork encapsulates those emotions and highlights that embracing sadness and anger is a natural part of our humanity,” explains the artist.

Each piece of Lacaba’s “Muni-muni” encourages us to pause, reflect, and embrace the emotions that shape us. It is a reminder that it’s okay to feel, to question, and to confront the emotions within and find solace in the imperfect beauty of our humanity. 

“Muni-muni” recently exhibited at Pinto Art Museum, Grand Heights Subd., Antipolo, City. For inquiries, email [email protected]