Artist Ioni Mendoza on finding inspiration and purpose through her art

June 6, 2024

In a world filled with diverse colors and experiences, Filipina Artist and entrepreneur Ioni Mendoza stands as a beacon of creativity, resilience, and purpose. Her art not only captures the beauty of landscapes and cultures, but also serves as a canvas for philanthropy, advocating for corneal donation through her envisioned foundation.

Recently, she proudly represented the Philippines as the sole Filipina artist at the Philippine Zi-Der Chinese Art Club, held at the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc., in the heart of Binondo, Manila.

Being a Filipina artist comes with its unique set of challenges, but Ioni faces them with grace and determination. As a woman navigating the art world, she recognizes the historical biases that have often overlooked the contributions of female artists. Despite this, Ioni draws inspiration from trailblazers like Anita Magsaysay-Ho and Pacita Abad, paving the way for future generations of female artists.

The cost and accessibility of quality materials pose practical challenges, particularly for niche forms like Chinese painting. Ioni emphasizes the importance of mentorship and hopes for more accessible avenues for learning from senior artists. In a digital age dominated by online courses, she values the irreplaceable experience of learning art in person, guided by a mentor.

Some of the highlights in Ioni’s artistic journey include her participation in sundry group exhibitions, and her dedication to curating her body of work.

Inspiration Unveiled: Tracing the Masters’ Footsteps
For Ioni, the world is her palette, and her art is a reflection of the diverse tapestry of experiences she has woven into her life.

What sets her apart is her unique ability to draw inspiration from the richness of cultures and the footprints of artistic masters. She has traversed the cobblestone streets of Arles, France, where Van Gogh once walked, and explored the residence of Da Vinci in Château du Clos Lucé during the 500th year anniversary of the maestro.

The museums of Florence and the iconic artworks of Michelangelo and Botticelli have left an indelible mark on her artistic journey. The vibrant street art of Melbourne, the modern works of Picasso in Paris, and the timeless pieces in New York’s MOMA have all contributed to the kaleidoscope of influences that shape Ioni’s artistry.

Closer to home, the endless mountains of Tanay, the vibrant culture of Cebu, and the pristine beaches of Siquijor, Cebu, Siargao, and Batanes have all left their imprint on her canvas. Through her art, Ioni not only captures the beauty of these places but also the essence of the people and the stories they hold.

Projects that Resonate: From Oeuvre to Advocacy
Over the past nine years, Ioni has diligently curated her oeuvre, showcasing her artistic evolution and exploration on platforms like social media including her art merch brand, artbyio atelier and online gallery at artworkarchive.com/profile/ioni-mendoza.

However, her ultimate goal extends beyond the realms of art appreciation. In her previous years, she has donated two of her art works for charity. With the help of her niece, she wants to continue this effort, envisioning to establish a foundation that promotes corneal donation through her art—an endeavor that merges passion with purpose.

Simultaneously, she embarks on a new venture with a long-time friend and business partner, setting up their own consulting business, Amorsolo Consulting. Ioni is the CEO of Amorsolo Consulting, a forward-looking consulting firm offering strategic HR solutions. The name itself is a testament to her art-inspired approach, aspiring to embody Filipino qualities such as resilience, agility, and excellence. Aside from displaying her entrepreneurial spirit, she encourages others to embrace a “portfolio life”—a multifaceted approach that includes honing skills and pursuing passions alongside a primary career.

As a guiding principle, Ioni embraces the words of the renowned poet Rumi: “Gratitude is the wine for the soul. Go on. Get drunk.” Her life’s motto is a celebration of gratitude, a recognition of the richness that life offers, and an acknowledgment of the beauty found in both the highs and lows. Like a fine Sauvignon Blanc, life is meant to be savored, and Ioni finds joy in sharing her passion with others.

Ioni’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of art, the pursuit of purpose, and the joy of living a life painted with gratitude. She’s weaving a tapestry of inspiration for generations to come.

Follow Ioni Mendoza’s social media and art gallery at linktr.ee/artbyio.