By Elreene Venice C. Hufana

I truly believe that everyone has creativity in them, no matter what hobby they pursue. Just take the time to explore and nurture your talents. God has given each of us unique skills, and it’s up to us to decide how we want to use them. Your hobby won’t just bring you joy; it can also bless the people around you. – Kimberly D. Rubi

What started as a hobby in grade school has become an instrument that calms and brings her peace during tough times. That is the role of painting in Kim’s life. Growing through life, painting taught Kim to be patient—no rush, just the joy and sweet anticipation of the beauty she would create. Thinking back, MAPEH classes fascinated her. Watercolor painting became a delight. Vegetable and fruits stamps on paper became warm memories of her childhood. It was a colorful world.

Kim’s love of art was deeply influenced by her dad. Learning everything from him, she would be sketching eyes, charcoal painting and even cake designing. She would even start to love cursive writing. Thanks to her dad who showed her the wonders of art, her skill would amaze schoolmates. They would ask her to print their names one by one. The elegance of her calligraphy would then be displayed in their school IDs. It was another source of joy for Kim.

Her creations were a feast for the eyes and a blessing for the table. Her art carried her though college days. When world stood still during the pandemic, it would also be her little escape.

I’m all about flowers, ballet, and portraits—basically, I paint and draw the stuff I love the most. I work with all sorts of mediums like poster paint, acrylic, oil but most of the time I use watercolor. I was able to sell my artworks. It felt amazing to use my hobby not just to pay for my tuition, but also to support and bless my family. Painting really became my go-to hobby during the pandemic. Even on normal days, I just enjoy doing anything creative—whether it’s painting, sketching, or editing photos and videos. – Kimberly D. Rubi

Her most treasured artwork would be for someone dearest. Hobbies really bless the people around us, as they did Kim’s.

I painted this piece back in 2015 as a gift for my mom, and I called it “Lumagong Puno ng Pag-ibig.” It’s really special to me because it was the first painting I ever gave her. My mom has always loved gardening, and I saw this artwork as a reflection of her—someone whose hands are gifted at growing things. Just like the seeds she plants, her children have also grown beautifully because of her love and care. – Kimberly D. Rubi

But who walks through life untouched by challenges? Certainly, not Kim. She faced those challenges wonderfully.

I’ll admit, I sometimes struggle with art block and telling colors apart. I’m partially colorblind, something I inherited from my father, so there are times when I accidentally grab the wrong color. But I don’t let it get to me, I just laugh and let myself be creative, even with those little imperfections. Art block can be tough too but when it happens, I take a step back and focus on something else until the ideas and inspiration return. I’ve learned to enjoy the process and not rush the outcome. – Kimberly D. Rubi

We would guess that Kim’s rich imagination guided her career as Creative Design Specialist of NLEX. She became someone who puts captured moments together and creates stories. She is someone whose great mind would create a positive impact on the community we serve. Through Kim, we are reminded to walk with patience, delight in the journey, and be captivated by the outcome.

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