In her work, Mendes explore photography through a mixed media practice whereby she investigates the concept of identity in and between various cultures. Her work focuses on strong social aspects as she draws inspiration from her direct surroundings and living conditions. 

Born in the Netherlands but with a Cape Verdean background, Mendes’ perception of how identity is formed is a direct result of this up bringing, she says. These two contrasting cultures/worlds contributed to create a generation where cultural identity has entered a new form. Trough photography, performances, textile, drawings and installations she researches these resources. For this she uses historical elements and her personal history.