Coming from a clan of artists, Jik Villanueva was exposed to arts early in childhood. His family provided him with creative energy and early lessons in art and life. He took up formal studies in fine arts at the University of the Philippines. He was determined to become a sculptor, using a variety of media such as brass, copper, hard wood, stone and bronze.

Using different materials and media makes him more creative and provides him ample opportunities to explore different subjects. Always wanting to excel in any kind of craft, he aimed for mastery in whatever medium he would be using. Overcoming challenges in his work gave him satisfaction and inspired him to express art in a very unique way.

Through his art he was able to give back his gift of creativity to others. By exhibiting in different places in the Philippines and other Asian countries, he was able to represent the peculiarities of different cultures.