Filipino-Chinese artist Ian Inoy created Fu Bear as a reflection of shared human experiences.
“There’s a Fu Bear in everyone.”
When Ian Inoy says this, he isn’t just talking about the bear that appears throughout his artworks. For Ian, Fu Bear has become a reflection of shared human experiences: joy, sorrow, fear, loneliness, friendship, and belonging. This same belief in empathy and human connection also inspired Ian to give his artwork, Lucky Knot, to the SiGMA Foundation charity auction.
Many artists find inspiration in solitude; Ian finds it in people. He enjoys exploring local markets, wandering hidden shops in unfamiliar alleys, or discovering unique hole-in-the-wall cafes.
“I love living life, and I love that life is very broad.” As an artist who loves talking to people, Ian’s approach extends beyond just creating. He also teaches part-time in universities and does art-related freelance work: “I just immerse.” Through travel, conversations, and everyday life, Ian finds his creative spark.
Why Fu Bear matters
During the SiGMA Asia Awards 2026, the reception area showcased artworks for the night’s charity auction. There was Lucky Knot, an oil painting with a bear in an indigo outfit, and looking at it just feels like you’re immersed in that subtle smile. As a Filipino-Chinese growing up in the Philippines, Ian always saw the “福” (Fu) character in front of his family’s house.
Fu means blessing or good fortune, which the Chinese usually place on the doorfront to symbolise bringing good fortune home. Growing up between Filipino and Chinese cultures, Ian wanted to embrace both sides of his identity, and Fu was the first impression that came to his mind.
But why a bear? Bears are frightening in nature, but teddy bears comfort us as children. “That’s me.” Ian loves the irony in this. It reflects his personality: he looks serious but is actually a caring person at heart.
Ian sometimes receives random messages from strangers, telling him they encountered his work and how it made them feel. This feedback reinforces the special power of Ian’s art: it encourages people to share their feelings or stories. For Ian, each new interpretation adds depth to his artwork’s meaning.
A painting that was never meant to be sold
Ian’s work, Lucky Knot, was auctioned off to benefit SiGMA Foundation’s charity programmes. “I used to not sell it; it was a personal piece that I wanted to keep to myself.”
The Lucky Knot symbol in the painting is not only an auspicious item in Chinese culture but also represents a connection to the world. This idea of connection is what ultimately led Ian to let it go: “The meaning behind Lucky Knot is really related to what SiGMA Foundation is trying to do,” he said, highlighting the shared goal of building and strengthening relationships between people.
When art becomes a connection
Before the bidding began, Ian noticed a visitor standing quietly in front of Lucky Knot, reading the artwork description for a few minutes. “What made you stop?” he later wondered. As it turned out, the visitor eventually became the winning bidder.
Watching his artwork being auctioned for the first time gave Ian goosebumps. “People were actually bidding and wanting to take it home.” After the auction, he approached the winning bidder to thank him. It was not only for the appreciation of the artwork, but also for supporting the charitable essence behind it.
“I think as an artist, that’s your superpower: to be able to create things to help other people, making an impact on the communities.” With that superpower, Lucky Knot becomes more than just a painting. It is part of the larger effort to support communities through the SiGMA Foundation’s work.
If Fu Bear were to attend a SiGMA event, what do you think it would do? Ian answered immediately: “It would network and talk to a lot of people there because I try to do that as well.” That is what Fu Bear is, a mirror image of Ian Inoy. It started as a reflection of the artist himself, but over time, it has become a reflection of anyone who sees it.
Fu Bear used to be about Ian Inoy, and now it’s about everyone.
The SiGMA Foundation raised more than €400,000 in 2025, marking a major milestone in the growth of its charity auctions. The funds have supported projects in healthcare, education, and community development. Read more about some of the standout moments here.
