Ibone Pardo, a 50-year-old artist hailing from Bilbao, in the heart of the Basque Country, offers a compelling narrative about the enduring allure of art and the courage to embrace creativity at any stage of life. While her formative years were filled with the melodies of music as she studied piano, her academic pursuits led her down a different path. Earning a degree in Psychology, followed by two master’s degrees, Ibone embarked on a fulfilling career in teaching. However, despite her dedication to education, art remained a constant, albeit often subtle, presence in her life.
Travel became a primary avenue for artistic exploration. Whether journeying with her parents in her younger years or later exploring the world with her partner and children, Ibone consistently sought out the artistic treasures that each destination had to offer. From the grandeur of architectural marvels to the intricate details of sculptures and the evocative power of paintings, these experiences shaped her aesthetic sensibilities and fueled her appreciation for creative expression.
Several months ago, Ibone felt a compelling urge to actively engage with her artistic inclinations. She acquired an acrylic painting notebook and began to paint, discovering not only a creative outlet but also a therapeutic practice that quickly became a passion. Starting with the immediacy of markers and the versatility of acrylics, she is now eager to broaden her horizons and experiment with a diverse range of mediums, constantly seeking new ways to express her inner vision.
The decision to transition to canvas felt like a significant step, almost as if she were a child tentatively entering a realm traditionally reserved for more seasoned artists. Each painting became a self-directed lesson, an opportunity to delve into the intricate interplay of color, form, movement, light, and shadow. While she acknowledges that not every experiment results in a flawless masterpiece, Ibone finds immense joy and profound growth in the creative process itself. The act of creation, the exploration of new techniques, and the challenges of bringing her ideas to life are all integral to her artistic journey.
Ibone’s story serves as an inspiring reminder that it is never too late to answer the call of one’s passions. Her journey from the world of psychology and education to the vibrant realm of art is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the courage to pursue one’s artistic dreams, regardless of life’s unexpected detours. Her late-blooming passion is a beacon of inspiration for anyone who has ever felt the pull of art, encouraging them to pick up a brush and begin their own creative adventure.