Aljen Fernandez: Brushing Joy into Life with Vibrant Whimsy (2025)

In the vivid realm of Filipino artists abroad, few brush with as much heart and color as Aljen Fernandez. A self-taught creative spirit now based in Kuwait, Aljen brings whimsical energy and emotional depth into every artwork she creates. Her journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and radiant imagination.

Humble Beginnings Rooted in Nature and Family

Aljen’s love for art bloomed early in life. With inspiration from her artist uncle and strong support from her family, she began painting during school, pestering her parents for supplies to satisfy her growing passion. What started as watercolor sketches grew into bold dreams of working with professional-grade materials and exploring acrylics on larger canvases.

From the beginning, her work was closely tied to the beauty of nature and the warmth of human connection. Scenic landscapes often merge with inspirational quotes and empowering messages—particularly those that uplift women. These themes would go on to define her artistic identity.

The Pandemic and the Healing Power of Paint

During the pandemic, Aljen faced a period of deep emotional and financial struggle after losing her job. But instead of succumbing to despair, she turned to her paintbrush. Art became her sanctuary. She began creating and posting uplifting artworks online—dreamcatchers, colorful animals, and scenes of hope—that resonated with a broader audience.

To her surprise, people responded. Commissions trickled in. Her work began to sell, giving her financial relief and renewed purpose. One of her most meaningful experiences came when she donated paintings for a cancer fundraiser in Kuwait, raising funds for those in need. Her art became more than self-expression—it became a form of service.

A Style That Sparks Joy

Aljen’s artwork is a fanciful combination of abstract, surrealist, and nature-imitative visions. Be it an elephant in majestic splendor surrounded by gentle pastel flowers or horses running in the soft blues, her work evokes sense perceptions of liberty, comfort, and wonder.

Her favorite blues, yellows, and pinks are deliberately used to add contrast and color and to make her paintings joyful and full of life. Her love for character paintings, i.e., Cocomelon paintings and flower-studded portraits, adds a playful element to her paintings, which are enjoyable for all.

What makes them so powerful is their emotional accessibility. These are not just adorable or pretty pictures—these are cheerful letters in big brushstrokes, drawing us into a space where dreams, flowers, and color are essential.

Lessons from a Lifelong Dreamer

Despite hardships growing up and lacking resources early on, Aljen never let go of her dream to become a full-time artist. She didn’t always have the tools, the platform, or the training—but she had heart. Even when she wasn’t competing in school contests due to lack of materials, she observed, learned, and vowed to keep improving.

Today, she tells aspiring artists to do the same. “Recognition is just a bonus,” she says. “What matters is spreading joy through your work and trusting others will love your special talents.” For Aljen, success is measured not in awards or viral fame but in emotional connection and creative freedom.

A Proud Member of MAKULAY

Aljen is now a proud member of MAKULAY (Malikhaing Kulturang Layag), the vibrant Filipino Artist Guild in Kuwait. Through this collective, she contributes to exhibits, community events, and mentorship efforts, proving that even overseas, Filipino artists can find connection, purpose, and a shared creative spirit.

With the assistance of MAKULAY and unrelenting commitment, Aljen explores new themes, honing her craft and loving the limitless potential of artistic expression. Her work is a testament to what happens when talent is married to resolve and when artistry is utilized not just to say something but also to move people.

A Life in Full Color

Aljen Fernandez thinks handiwork is greater than ornamentation—a vehicle for healing, bonding, and telling stories. Her paintings, which are bursting with rich colors and warm motifs, evoke the gaze of others to see the beauty in delicacy, strength in simplicity, and optimism in each stroke.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just realizing the beauty of Filipino art, Aljen’s works are not just an eyesight pleasure—they are a moment of joy, a serenity of the soul, and a gentle reminder that imagination will flourish everywhere, even in the middle of the desert.

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