I have always been an artistic person. Through the years, I intentionally got into creative pursuits. The process of creation is when I know for sure that I’m in my element.
I tend to gravitate towards anything artsy and tend to escape work that requires too many numbers and calculations. When I was a kid, I wanted to be an architect when I grew up. But as I grew older, I discovered how much math was required in architecture so I quickly scrapped the dream! Hahaha!
There have been periods in my life where I was not able to produce artworks, while very occupied with family life and raising my children. But I have never had a time where I did not make and create. My daily life as a wife and mother actually allows me to be creative in many ways.
I am a proud Filipino now living in Canada with my awesome hubby and amazing daughters. The transition to a new country though, was difficult to say the least. I felt stripped, lost and dislocated. Everything I knew about myself and my life was challenged by the existing culture, environment, beliefs and mindsets. The landscape started to look blurry, unappealing and sad during the first few years in this country. My art practice seemed like a pipe dream.
I did not want to just exist. I wanted to live and that meant continuing my art practice no matter what.
So hooray! I’ve since woken up from that foggy moment.
I am now joyfully and resolutely declaring that
“I am an artist. Period.”
“The completion of an artwork’s life cycle is when it is received.”
Queti Azurin
Art can be received by just one person or by many. The number is insignificant. Reception does not refer to only owning a piece of art but the mere point of seeing and having the opportunity to be moved by the artwork.
Art is a powerful force that can inspire and heal.
My deeper understanding of the impact of art motivates me more to pursue it. If I can bring joy, relief and healing through my artwork then that’s my jam!
What do I make anyway? And why do I do what I do?
I make mixed media artworks and drawings that present a playful narrative. I’m extremely fascinated by visual storytelling. Creating art is how I process and deal with my deep emotions and thoughts to get to a level of understanding, acceptance, release and joy.
Art time is also my play time!
In my art, I prefer to depict a specific part of the story and let the viewers create their own interpretation so that they can be recipients of the healing and joy that art can bring.
An exciting journey ahead awaits and let’s see how I roll from here on.
The possibilities are infinite, and they can be absolutely amazing!
