Joejene C. Santos
"Art is a discovery and expression of life that allows us to discover the beauty of who we are within and the greatest that we will be."
Joejene: Unveiling Humanity’s Beauty through Abstract Art
Embracing the belief that art serves as an introspective journey, Joejene perceives it as a conduit to unveil the inherent beauty of humanity. This conviction profoundly fuels his creative approach, which involves layering paint as a representation of his emotional state, cherished memories, and self-perception. Joejene’s works exhibit a nuanced balance, concealing less desirable aspects whilst highlighting elements that resonate with his personal evolution.
Joejene’s artwork is known for its unique modern abstract style. It’s a blend of planned and spontaneous elements, inspired by his youthful rebellion against societal rules. A common story that symbolizes his artistry is how he would mess up his perfectly arranged hair, a counteraction to his mother’s careful grooming efforts. This rebellion is reflected in his art as he pushes against conventional beauty standards by including disorder. However, he skillfully balances this chaos in his work.
His daily routine is organized to inspire his creativity. Each morning starts with quiet meditation and exercise, followed by a simple breakfast while appreciating the natural scenery from his home. Everyday tasks like cooking help keep him grounded, stopping him from being fully consumed by his innovative thoughts. The calming sounds of classical and meditative music accompany him during his art creation, helping him stay focused on the process.
Joejene carries an enduring motto in his heart that fuels his creative fires even amidst potential distractions: “Keep on painting because it makes me feel alive.” This personal axiom constantly acts as a beacon, illuminating his path and guiding him toward his destiny.
Joejene C. Santos is a Filipino-Canadian artist who currently resides and practices in Ottawa, Canada. His work is held in private collections in The Philippines, the United States, Japan, The Netherlands, Sweden, Italy, and Canada. Previously represented by Orange Art Galley (Ottawa) and Le Salon Art Club Galerie (Montreal).
Artist Statement
As an artist, I see my work, as a reflection of embracing life's beauty, joy and wonder beyond expectations and preconceived thoughts, making me a vibrant co-creator of life, alive and free. #beingtruetomycore #livelife #presentmomentisparadise
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I find joy in refining my work, as it's essential to my creative process, allowing me to distill my vision to its essence and produce art that is authentic and unified.
My ultimate goal in my work is to tap into a profound sense of raw emotions, dynamic movement and authenticity that resonates true to my core. Everything else in my thoughts dissolves in a singular creative experience, catapulting me into a state of pure awareness that is I am here in the present moment, in a place of love, alive and at home with the abundance of life...feels like I am connected to a universal oneness."
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This essence of oneness is the essence of my art- nothing less, nothing more. It is perfect for me, like a manifestation of the Divine. This is the art I capture in every single canvas I paint, hoping would evoke the same experience for those who view my work.
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BIO
CV-Exhibitions
Joejene C. Santos, Born March 1970 in Pampanga, Philippines. Currently lives and paints fulltime in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Educational Background
Bachelor of Fine Arts Major in Advertising (BFA) Philippine Women’s University, Manila, Philippines (1992-1996)
One-year Painting Course Philippine Women’s University, Manila, Philippines (1992-1993)
Civil Engineering Course Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines (1987-1990)
Solo Shows
Roses and Blues
Le Salon Art Club Galerie
1060 Laurier Avenue West Outremont (Quebec)
H2V 2K8, March 16-31, 2024
Vivere
Orange Art Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, April 2022
Featured Artist: Joejene C. Santos (online)
Circle Foundation For The Arts
Feb 2021
Feel Me…Feel Life
Orange Art Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, May 2018
Achieving I
Trinity Art Gallery
Shenkman Arts Centre
Ottawa, Ontario, March 2016
Featured Artist
Rothwell Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, January 2014
Art Fair
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair 2025 (Exclusively Online)
Toronto, Ontario, July 2025
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair 2023 (Exclusively Online)
Toronto, Ontario, July 2023
The Other Art Fair Virtual Edition Presented by Saatchi Art, May 23- June 5, 2022
International Art Fair - Monaco 2021 (Represented by Van Gogh Art Gallery) Monte Carlo, Monaco, August 2021
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair 2021
Toronto, Ontario, July 2021
Toronto Artist Project 2020
Better Living Centre
Toronto, Ontario, February 2020
Toronto Artist Project 2019
Better Living Centre
Toronto, Ontario, February 2019
Selected Group Shows
Early Bird Gets The Worm A curated show by Samantha Jones, Aurora Cultural Centre, May 16 - Aug 10, 2024
Butterfly Effect A curated online show by Contemporary Art Curator Magazine, Feb 23 - June 2022
Infinite Dreams A curated online show by Contemporary Art Curator Magazine, Feb - June 2021
Art in the Time of Coronavirus & Social Distancing A curated online show by Circle Foundation for the Arts, November 2020
Isolation 2020 ( A Virtual Art Show)
First Avenue Consulting
Ottawa, Ontario, May 2020
Orange Christmas Show
Orange Art Gallery
Ottawa Ontario, November 2019
November Art Show (Three Artist Show)
First Avenue Consulting's Charity Event
Ottawa, Ontario, November 2019
Postcards Across the Pacific
The Embassy of the Philippines in Canada
Ottawa Ontario, March 2019
Buklod (Tatlong Sulok Reunion Show) Art Verite Gallery Taguig City, Philippines Feb 2018
Valentine Show
Orange Art Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, February 2018
The Railway Crossing Show
Orange Art Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, July 2017
Chinatown Remixed Festival (Juried Show)
Ottawa, Ontario, September 2016
Blue
Cube Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, August 2016
Great Big and Smalls XI
Cube Gallery
Ottawa, Ontario, December 2015
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Art Residency
Summerville Art Festival, New Brunswick, Canada, August 14- 21 2023