Tanisha Salakoh
In honour of Black History Month, we're interviewing some of our favourite Black Canadian artists to find out what inspires them and what advice they're giving for 2022 and beyond.
How did you get started on this career path? Was art always something you had a passion for?
People often find this surprising, but I am actually a full-time Chartered Accountant! Who said you can’t be an artist as well as an accountant though, right? Art has always been something that I have been passionate about. Growing up with an artist for a father, I was always encouraged to express myself creatively. Whether it was taking pottery classes, painting, or creating my own comic book characters, art has always been an important part of my life. I really got started on this creative journey in 2016, when I was on a 3-year work visa in the UK. What initially started as a creative outlet from work, turned into my ultimate passion. As my pieces became larger, I rented my first ever studio space, gained the confidence to start exhibiting my work, and the rest is history!
Do you have a personal philosophy?
For me, it is all about living and creating in the present moment. I find that expressing myself creatively is such a natural and rewarding way to practice mindfulness. It is so easy to get lost within the creative process, the colours, the textures, sounds of your tools on the canvas, that you lose all sense of time. I believe that the process of creating is more important than the final product.
What inspires you?
Honestly, it is never one single thing that inspires me, which is why I always find painting so fresh and exciting! I do however find that inspiration is often drawn from travel experiences and music. For example, in 2021 I created a whole series of works inspired by the Tenet Soundtrack composed by Ludwig Goransson. The electronic beats mixed with orchestral melodies, the change from fast-paced high intensity to slow, melodic dreamlike sounds really brought out a creative energy in me. For months on end, I repeatedly painted alongside this album, letting the subconscious mind take over, and allowing the creative process to flow.
Any favourite art trends for 2022?
I have definitely seen a shift over the last 5 years in the movement of buying and supporting local artists and artisans. There is a growing trend of businesses collaborating with artists, whether it is displaying and selling local artists’ works in their shops, or hosting receptions and small exhibitions in their spaces. These collaborations are mutually beneficial, and a great opportunity to network within the local community.
What’s your favourite piece of artwork you have created?
I never like to play favourites with my artwork, however, there are a few pieces that come to mind. One of them is “Posterity” which I painted in 2021. Around this time, I was experimenting and working on a new series where I mixed in different mediums and substances to a heavy body acrylic paint to create more dynamic layers and textures. I was also experimenting with a linear approach to painting, adding vertical pillars ranging in size and colour for a visually exciting effect. This was the first painting of the series, and I found it to be a creative breakthrough in my style.
Are there any “art rules” you love to break?
As a self-taught artist, I have never really followed any “art rules” to begin with. I mean, I paint with a squeegee after all! But in all honesty, the “art rule” I love to break is to completely skip the planning stage when starting a new piece. The lack of reference photos, sketches, and studies gives me absolute freedom to express myself in the moment. When painting, I have no preconceived idea of what the finished piece will look like. The haphazard lines and strokes are born from the subconscious mind, letting creative expression completely take over.
What is your favourite artwork from another artist?
This is honestly a really tough question, as I have several favourite artists who have influenced my painting style and technique over the years. If forced to choose, I would have to go with Gerhard Richter’s Cage Series. I first saw the series at the Tate Modern (London, UK) in 2015, and was really drawn to the large scale compositions and the infinite layers and texture. He described his approach as the willingness to let go of control and order and leave things to chance. This has had a profound influence on my painting technique, and my approach to creating.
How do you see the Canadian art community evolving to become more diverse?
I do believe that the Canadian art community has evolved to become more diverse over the last few years. In 2021, Quamajuq (the museum housing the largest collection of Inuit art in the world) opened in Winnipeg. I am seeing a growing number of opportunities for BIPOC artists such as targeted open calls and grant programs. There is also an increasing number of registries that promote and feature BIPOC artists and professionals in Manitoba. It's encouraging to see the increasing number of collaborations and partnerships that support diversity and give exposure to individuals of diverse backgrounds. There is still a significant amount of work required around diversity, equity, and inclusion, but I believe that we are taking steps in the right direction.
How has your work shifted in an increasingly virtual world?
Overall, the shift has been very challenging, especially since the start of the pandemic. Postponing and cancelling exhibitions and receptions because of COVID-19 has limited my opportunity to connect and network within the arts community. I also find that my pieces are meant to be seen in person as you can better see and appreciate the built-up layers and texture that photographs do not do justice to. This shift has, however, allowed me to increase my presence online via social media, virtual pop-up markets, and art consultations over zoom. This experience has taught me to adapt quickly, and I have become stronger and more resilient because of it.
