Kriss Munsya, a Belgian-Congolese visual artist currently based in Vancouver, Canada, uses his photography to delve into critical reflections on identity, diaspora, and blackness. His work interrogates the effects of colonialism, generational guilt, and cultural disconnection, drawing from his own life experiences of migration from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Belgium. Munsya’s photography creates space for conversations about racism, self-identity, and the socio-political realities of marginalized groups.
One of his standout works, “Syracuse” (photography, 112x89x5 cm), is part of his ongoing series GENETIC BOMB. This powerful series explores the effects of colonialism and the complexities of black identity in a globalized world. Syracuse captures a scene in the Congo, blending vibrant colors with symbolism to highlight the lingering impact of colonialism, generational trauma, and the search for self-identity. Through the use of mirrors and gradients in the clothing, Munsya visually represents the internal conflict of individuals whose cultural identities are slowly being washed away by the remnants of colonialism.
Munsya’s work is not just about the past; it is a call for reflection on the future. By examining the intricate patterns of patriarchy, colonial nostalgia, and systemic oppression, his series sheds light on how these structures continue to shape the lives of individuals today. His photography is both visually striking and deeply thought-provoking, designed to evoke empathy and critical reflection from viewers.
As a finalist in the category of Photography for the scan.art Emerging Artist Prize 2024, Munsya’s work will be exhibited at the Finalist Exhibition at Bakerhouse Gallery, Graz, Austria, which opens to the public on Friday, October 18th, 18:00. This exhibition will feature 24 exceptional emerging artists from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to engage with Munsya’s thought-provoking work.
For more about Kriss Munsya’s artwork and philosophy, visit his website at www.krissmunsya.com or his Profile on scan.art.
For more information about the scan.art Emerging Artist Prize, visit our website www.scan.art/emergingartistprize
