Here’s a Diary exclusive interview with Yunus Chkirate, visual artist and painter from Montreal, who focuses on modern and contemporary artworks, paintings, sculptures and mixed medias. His collections are found worldwide and helps support the LGBTQ+ community.
What’s the hardest part about being an artist?
“Honestly, the biggest beast is time management. As artists, we need that sacred studio time to truly channel our creativity. But let’s be real, we’re not just creators; we’re also business pros, marketers, accountants, friends, and everything in between. For me, the real challenge is making sure my work springs from a genuinely organic place, telling a true story without getting swayed by opinions or dollar signs. Drowning out that external noise can be tough, but staying true to those values? That’s what makes me authentically proud. After 15 years, I’ve learned to always prioritize the creative flow, while still carving out time for myself and loved ones”
Why is it important to create artworks?
“Creating art is my way of exploring myself and others. It’s a sacred space where I can capture moments, spin stories, and constantly learn. There’s something magical about how a single facial expression can translate an emotion, truly connecting with a viewer and letting them feel a piece of their own life in the work. I often dive into themes like love, struggle, and resilience because they’re universally human; they touch us all. My golden rule? Always start from a real place. That’s why every piece gets its title first. Beyond being my passion and profession, it’s where I feel most authentic.”
Who inspires your upcoming performances?
“Music is my muse, a crucial part of my creative rhythm. I gravitate towards songs that echo the very feelings I channel into my art. Lately, I’ve had a huge creative crush on Canadian singer Charlotte Cardin. Her album Phoenix (which, by the way, is also my favorite mythical creature!) has been on repeat more times than I can count. Honestly, I’d jump at the chance to combine an artistic performance with her one day!”
We’d love to hear about your upcoming exhibitions!
“Absolutely! I’m currently showcasing a series of portraits and sculptures at Galerie MAIK (Notre-Dame/De La Montagne) in Montreal, following my spring exhibition, FOCUS. My upcoming solo exhibition, RAW & LOVED, promises an honest and intimate look at human emotion. You’ll see a diverse range of portraiture: acrylic paintings, hand-woven steel sculptures, and mixed-media pieces. These aren’t just faces; they’re deep dives into universal experiences – love in its many forms, the ache of longing, and the sheer resilience found in overcoming struggle. My hope is that by laying these emotions bare, the exhibition will spark a profound sense of shared humanity, cutting across all boundaries of identity, orientation, race, gender, and even where we call home. The exhibition kicks off this November at K&K Contemporary in San Francisco. Many inspirations for these works combine subjects from both Montreal and San Francisco. Especially with the current global climate, I believe it’s a powerful opportunity to show people that despite geographical distances, we all share the same emotional core.”
For more information about Yunus’ artistic talents, visit his website.