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 currently represented by Le Salon Art Club (Montreal) and is held in private collections in The Philippines, the United States, Japan, The Netherlands, Sweden, Italy, and Canada.

Artist Statement

The Creative Process of Oneness, The True Nature of My Work

In my work, I seek to capture a feeling that is raw, moving, powerful, and deeply resonant with my creative soul. There exists a fleeting moment in my creative process that reveals the true nature of my work. And I need to be aware of this moment or I will lose my sense of faith or creative direction.

The convergence of mind, body, and soul in the creative process—both physical and spiritual—brings a moment of clarity. Layers of paint reveal a memory or a familiar place within me, and all other thoughts dissolve into a singular creative experience that I am here in the present moment, and I am home with the abundance of life. And at this moment I feel like what I do and who I am are now connected in a place of oneness, a place of love. I am a co-creator of life, alive and free.

This place of oneness represents the true nature of my art—nothing less, nothing more. It is perfect for me, like a divine creation of life. #beingwhoyouare #livelife #artofoneness

BIO

LifE

CV-Exhibitions

Joejene C. Santos, Born March 1970 in Pampanga, Philippines. Currently lives and works 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

Art Residency

Summerville Art Festival, New Brunswick, Canada, August 14- 21 2023