Not.Your.Average.Joe. - Arnel Ordonio

Name: Arnel Alvarez Ordonio
Age: 26
Birthday: May 24, 1984
Location: Salinas, California
Nationality: Filipino
Talent: Art








Arnel is the type of person where art is literally his second nature. He's been into art and design as far as his brain can remember; from drawing, sewing, photography, etc. He's done it all. But it was only recently that he started design and building longboards. Eventually, this hobby turned into a passion. And thus, 'Kuya Longboards' was brought to life. It has been about a year now since he's been making his own brand of longboards. And he's not stopping anytime soon. After making his first longboard ever, dubbed "mini Hero", Arnel decided to make this longboard gig official. Here are a few photos of his designs.

Kuya Longboads - "mini Hero" (white)

Kuya Longboards - "mini Hero" (black)

This "mini Hero" brand is really what started it all for Arnel. But his passion for longboard building doesn't stop just at creating them, he has actually used his talent in helping inspire the youth in his local area to magnify their creativity in a positive and fun way. Arnel is currently working with the City of Salinas in hosting a workshop over the summer, and is to be offered free for the youth (and maybe even to the general public?) Kuya Longboards is one of the very few, if not the only one, who is working with  his local government  in offering such a unique and wonderful program. 

Other than promoting a positive outlet for the youth in his area over the summer, Arnel has BIG dreams for his brand/company. As of right now, he is working diligently in trying to build a team to enter into legit races. This will definitely help in promoting his company as a whole. Also, he aspires that one day his brand will reach a worldwide audience. 

Okay, quick break. Here are a few more of his designs. Enjoy!

Kuya Longboards - "Bahala Na"

Kuya Longboards - "Ate"

Kuya Longboards: "mini Villian"

Alright, well lets get to know Arnel a little bit more. Arnel is an easy going type of guy who isn't hard to get along with. He said that he tries very hard to please everyone before himself, which may be a downfall for him one of these days. I myself am a nice guy, so I know exactly how that feels. For better of for worse, Arnel has been through many hardships and trials in life that has tested him as a person. And in the end, it's what has helped mold him in to who he needed him to be. Another thing about Arnel, is he is a faithful believer in God. Really, the only fear that he holds, is the fear of not having God in his life. Also, other than art, food is his other vice in life. If he could, he would go to all the best restaurants around the world just to taste what it is that makes them so great. Which, in turn, got him interested in cooking as well. 

Anyways, here are some last minute photos of his designs before I wrap things up with this weeks "Featured Artist". 

Kuya Longboards - asym Double Kicks

Kuya Longboards - Bride&Groom (special)

Having been born and raised as a devout christian, Arnel has found inspiration through God in heaven, AS WELL AS his father here on Earth. He's claimed that, "Without them, I can do nothing." Both of his inspirations help continue to motivate him everyday, because of all the love and support that he receives from them. 

As we reach the conclusion of this post, I just want to give a quick shout out to Arnel! Thanks, bro, for letting me feature you in my blog. ^_^ Your designs are awesome, and I truly wish you all the best with your company. And to all my readers who continue to support me, THANK YOU SO MUCH! Please continue to support all of the artists I've featured as well! And as for Arnel, if you want to check out more of his work, you can find his fan page on Facebook here! Lol. Like it!! 

Yours Truly, 

AJ T. (: