In the Studio with Artist Kianna Wilson
Today, we’re going In the Studio with artist Kianna Wilson. Kianna’s artwork is currently on display in the Chesapeake Arts Center’s Power to…the Art of Protest Gallery exhibit.
Kianna Wilson is no stranger to CAC. Her work has been on display in our recent gallery exhibit, Our Maryland, and now she is back! Her work mainly consists of photography, but also has a calling to paint as well. The work she has on display currently includes several photographs with heavy social commentary that speaks to the state of our society today. Kianna has been practicing art since college with a brief hiatus. After picking it back up, she began her company Major Ki Photography and shoots all around Baltimore. She shoots privately for events as well as band photography, sporting events and has had several of her documentary photography published.
Here’s Kianna talking about her art, process and experience...
What style, genre or medium of art excites you the most?
Photography!
Do you consider yourself an artist? Why or why not?
Yes! I create art that inspires and makes others happy. And that’s honestly the goal.
Who is your mentor and what did they teach you?
Sean Dackermann. He always gives me advice on the photography world. Always provides the OG knowledge that I need. Every question I have, he has an answer for. He taught me that the photography world is hard but as long as you’re enjoying it, that’s all that matters.
How do you find inspiration?
My emotions/feelings, walking outside, social media, and friends.
What emotion(s) fuel your work?
Happiness, sadness, anger, any emotion possible honestly.
What does your artwork represent?
I would hope others see my work as fun and creative. I want my artwork to represent me as a person. Someone who tries to stay positive and happy and make other feels good.
When did you start creating art? Was there an event that led you to this?
I first started in high school back in 2010. Then stopped after my freshman year of college. A friend found my camera back in 2016 and told me I should start taking photos again. We went to a sunflower field, I took photos, and I’ve been creating ever since.
How often do you create art?
As much as I can. If it’s not on my physical camera, I’m using my phone.
When do you art? (before coffee, after bed, when inspiration strikes…)
Whenever I feel inspired, that’s when I start to take photos.
What is your studio/creative space like? Or what is your favorite place to create in?
I don’t have a current studio at the moment but I do like taking photos outside. Doesn’t matter the time, weather, or place.
Do you work on one piece of art at a time, or multiple?
It all depends on my availability. But I prefer multiple. It gives me more ideas for the future.
What’s in a name; how do you title your artworks?
I title all my photographs based off what is going on in the photo or how it makes me feel.
How has your art/style evolved over time?
It’s completely changed over time. My angles, poses, edits, everything has changed. I feel my work has gotten more mature if that makes sense. When I started again in 2016, I knew I had some growth (and I still do) but I was still satisfied with the work. Now I’m happy with it even though I know I can grow some more.
What’s your favorite medium to work in? Do you explore others?
Photography will always be my favorite but I also do enjoy painting. I like putting all my thoughts and feelings on a canvas and just exploring with a brush or my fingers or an object.
What’s your go-to song or album that you listen to while you create?
I really just like listening to anything that hypes me up when I take photos! Like Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, and others. But when I paint, R&B is my go to for sure!
What city have you always wanted to create art in?
There’s several cities: Chicago, Seattle, Portland, Phoenix, Dallas, Austin, there’s a few.
If you could be anything besides an artist, what would you be, and why?
I would be an actress. I think I’m hilarious and should be on some type of show.
How does art impact our society?
It gives people hope. Anything created can provide a story for someone else or bring them some type of peace. I think that’s important.
For more information on Kianna, check out her website: www.majorkiphotography.com.
Hal Gomer Gallery Hours:
Monday-Thursday 10:00am-6:00pm
Saturday 10am-1pm ( starting on January 15, 2022)
*Visitors are required to call ahead to reserve a time to view the exhibit. Please call CAC’s main office at 410-636-6597 during our business hours Monday - Thursday, 10:00 am-6:00pm to reserve a date and time. Visitors will be checked in upon arrival and masks are required to enter the gallery and CAC building.
