Kriss Munsya

How did you get into making art?

I think I’ve always been an artist. From a very young age, I needed to create stuff. Drawings, paintings, building new toys, writing stories, poetry… It was something so natural. But my parents never pushed me towards it, they never gave me the impression that art was an option in life. I had to find it out later in my twenties.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on a photographic project about climate justice environmental racism. Black and Indigenous communities are disproportionately affected by climated even if they barely contribute to it, so I want to raise awareness about it.

What inspired you to get started on this body of work?

I think moving to Canada was the trigger. I met people who were involved in the fight with the Indigenous communities against the pipelines, the missing and murdered Indigenous women. I made a parallel with the Black community and decided to dig a bit more.

Do you work on distinct projects or do you take a broader approach to your practice?

Every project is different. Different technique, different approach, different environment.

What’s a typical day like in your studio?

I actually don’t work in a studio. I think I had a studio for only 3 months in my whole life. Most of the photos I take are taken outside.

Who are your favorite artists?

I’m not a big fan of visual art (for some reason). I don’t really follow visual artists. I’m more a music fan, that’s where i get most of my inspiration. In music, I would say George Michael, Thom Yorke, Washed Out, Toro Y Moi, Pink Floyd, Jamiroquai.

Where do you go to discover new artists?

I subscribed to a music magazine when I was 19. It’s called Magic RPM (from france). Thats how I still discover new artists.