My process isn’t really linear.
Eelise Ndri
What does the MTL #BLM street mural mean to you? How was your experience creating this outstanding art piece with various Montreal artists?
To me it represented an outlet for others who aren’t necessarily frontline activists , but wanted it to be known that they are with the movement . Everyone plays a role in order to bring awareness to the social issues, however the route is. It was pretty cool to see and work with various artists of different styles come and make something cohesive!
Can you tell us about your creative process or your practice? Is there a main message you want to communicate when creating your art? If yes, what is it?
My process isn’t really linear. I usually am listening to music or having different conversations or reading about a myriad of topics, and then someone says something or I see something that intrigues me. I ponder over it for a while and spiderweb ideas from there. I’ve never had one idea that stayed the same from start to finish, I never end up with my initial idea. I keep the original idea components, but the idea changes and morphes through the process as I understand the message I want to convey even more.
How did you come up with the idea for the artwork of your letter on the Mtl #BLM street mural and can you help us understand its meaning ? And where do you see your art going: what are some of your dreams/goals, short or long term?
It represents the different non-black people of colour and white people (beige spots) in higher numbers than the black faces, whom need to be more upfront and active allies. It’s not just black people’s hands up, it’s everyone. The strike across the eye in black is to let them see a glimpse of what we go through as black people.
I’m open to whatever and wherever my art takes me! I would love to do some more art campaigns for brands, like I did for Tazo Tea! If you’re interested in love funky colourful witty concepts, holla at ya girl!
How has the current social crisis (COVID & BLM) impacted your career and your art or creative process? Do you think art plays a role in the fight against racial inequality and police brutality?
I think the impact rests more in figuring out who genuinely wants to work with you or do collaboration because they believe you are great and not because of a quota they try to respect. I’ve turned down opportunities because of “quota fulfillment” and “ hey we have a black artist vibes”.
Not everyone gets into reading on black issues or attend protests, so I believe art allows a space for messages to be delivered to those who speak a more empathetic approach to everything. It doesn’t minimize or negate work that needs to be done .
About Eelise NdriSandrine Ap, also known as eelise_ndri on Instagram, is a forward-thinking bisous lol artist based in Montreal,Quebec . Her work is a collection of funky, witty, and always colourful art. She mixes the vibes of various cultures with a touch of modern contemporary styles with a message baked in from its inception . The thick white strike across one eye is representative of drawing through her vision, but always leaving room, a blank canvas for the viewers interpretation. The Creative Team
