(Jak and Poy) / 1987 / Oil on canvas / 156 x 156 cm / Artist: Lazaro Soriano aka Aro Soriano / Ateneo Art Gallery collection

Jak en Poy is a graphic narrative of the historic EDSA Revolt that overthrew the Marcos regime as a tragicomic event. Filipino wit and humor amidst adversity is effectively portrayed by the artist’s caricaturish rendition of personalities. The smiling President Corazon Aquino is dressed in a navy blue dress with yellow collar, resembling the uniforms of the Catholic Women’s League and that of salesclerks in a popular department store. With a Jack-of-Hearts card on her pocket, she flashes the “Laban” (“Fight”) gimmick sign on her fingers. Jaime Cardinal Sin, with a Jack-of-Diamonds card holds Aquino’s right shoulder as he sneers at Juan Ponce Enrile. Enrile meanwhile flashes the “Victory” gimmick sign of the deposed dictator’s political party. A Jack-of-Spades card adorns Enrile’s white shirt. Fidel Ramos, in a general’s green cap, and the rebel soldier Gregorio Honasan aka “Gringo” complete the roster of main protagonists, which are all convincingly characterized.

A middle-class multitude hovers around the political celebrities, as though participating in a vulgar get-together. At center space are a matron with rosary beads on her neck, a photojournalist focusing his camera lens, a sneering nun, a laughing lady with curlers on her hair, and a figure disguised behind a green mask with red lips and flowers. On the periphery are a few workers and peasants.

On top of the carnivalesque throng is a smart monkey perched on a yellow pole, actually the cardinal’s scepter.

A color scheme of rainbow hues is used in thinly brushed strokes. Colorful costumes, balloons, and the orange tint of faces and figures all contribute to the comic book clarity of the festive middle-class coup.