In her early days, Adja's (a.k.a PIIIIRRE) journey began on the runway, but her passion for creativity bloomed in all directions. From content creation to dance, her artistic spirit took hold. Now, she paints not just with colors on canvas, but with vibrant energy and the beauty of her cultural roots.
A Walking Art Visionary - PIIIIRRE the Fierce Beauty Who Paints a Beautiful Collage with Her Multifaceted Expressions
Welcome to her piiiirre, a view into her vision, her world where creativity cannot be limited.
Adja believes that creativity knows no boundaries; it is a boundless realm where expressing and showcasing your unique vision becomes paramount.
How did you become an artist?
I began my journey in modeling as a hobby which gradually evolved into a serious pursuit, allowing me to collaborate with numerous talented individuals such as creatives, stylists, photographers, and artistic directors within the fashion industry. Concurrently, my passion for fashion led me into content creation, a realm I've been immersed in since early on, having designed clothing since the age of 10.
In parallel to my fashion endeavours, I've also cultivated my skills as a dancer, starting at a young age. Through content creation and modelling, I explored additional creative avenues, including photography and artistic direction. Motivated by a desire to expand my creative horizons, I began developing my own projects, focusing on uplifting and showcasing the talent of Black and African individuals in Montreal. This journey also inspired me to establish a dedicated Instagram group for BIPOC creatives, providing a platform to share opportunities within our community.
I would describe myself as a multidisciplinary artist, as my work spans various mediums and disciplines, each driven by a passion for creativity and a commitment to fostering diversity and representation in the arts.
Can you share a particular moment or experience that significantly impacted your
artistic journey?
Not long ago, I was at a crossroads in my artistic journey. Despite juggling content creation, creative direction, and various other projects alongside my studies and a full-time job—without the support of an agent—I was feeling stuck. Balancing everything seemed daunting, and I wasn't sure how to progress.
Then, shortly before an upcoming exhibition, I went to collect my prints. While checking everything, two girls in line approached me to compliment my outfit. Upon noticing my prints, they excitedly mentioned recognizing them on TikTok and expressed their genuine admiration for the project. Their unexpected recognition brightened my day and dispelled the doubts and exhaustion I had been grappling with.
Realizing the impact of my work, especially among those who appreciated it, was a pivotal moment. It reaffirmed my passion and reminded me of the power of creativity to connect with others, motivating me to push forward with renewed inspiration and purpose.
How do you decide your themes?
When considering themes for my work, I often explore societal questions that intrigue me, seeking to address them through artistic expression. My inspiration predominantly stems from the richness of Black and African cultures, traditions, and people. I find joy in blending these influences with contemporary perspectives, creating a fusion that resonates with modern audiences while celebrating the depth of cultural heritage.
What inspired "Sisters in Nature"?
Honestly, this project marked my first foray into artistic direction, and my initial ambition was simply to shoot in a park—quite modestly! I took on multiple roles, including modelling, and enlisted the help of fellow creatives to bring my vision to life. This experience brought a deep understanding of artistic direction as a formal role within the creative industry.
My primary goal with this project was to celebrate sisterhood, specifically within the black community. I aimed to convey the bond and empowerment shared among black women, drawing inspiration not only from our connections with each other but also from our connection with nature.
This project was a pivotal moment for me, sparking a realization of my passion for artistic direction and its potential impact. It underscored the importance of representation and storytelling in my work, shaping my future creative endeavours.
What emotions or thoughts do you hope to evoke in viewers of your work?
I want viewers to perceive my work as engaged art and to feel the energy inherent in each project. I cherish open-mindedness, so I don't impose specific thoughts on how they should interpret it. Everyone brings their perspective, and I find beauty in the diverse interpretations that may uncover aspects I hadn't considered myself. That's the essence of art—there's no right or wrong way to interpret it.
Additionally, I hope my audience reflects on the societal questions that may have inspired these projects. By encouraging such contemplation, I aim to spark meaningful conversations and reflections on important issues through my art.
How do you feel about exhibiting your work? What does this exhibition mean to
you?
This upcoming exhibition in Toronto marks my third this year, and I feel incredibly blessed and grateful considering I only began exploring artistic direction in 2024. It's been inspiring to see the positive reception and enthusiasm from people who appreciate my work and eagerly anticipate more projects.
Having this opportunity in Toronto, a city I've yet to explore, feels surreal. I'm thrilled that my projects are gaining traction beyond Montreal and reaching a broader audience. It's a rewarding experience to know that my artistic vision resonates with people in different cities.
Are there any particular pieces in this exhibition that hold special significance to
you and why?
Yes. Images from the TERANGA YEARBOOK 2024, a part of a larger project
highlighting 10 Senegalese models who embody African excellence in education. This initiative is deeply personal as it represents a journey of reconnecting with cultural roots and celebrating ethnic diversity.
For me, being Senegalese has always been a source of pride, even though I haven't lived there permanently. Spending summers in Senegal allowed me to immerse myself in the culture, learn the language, and truly appreciate its beauty. I wanted to showcase the richness of Senegal's people and its diverse ethnicities, languages, and traditions, which often go unnoticed within the country.
The yearbook isn't just about photographs; it's a love letter to my homeland. It symbolizes a profound connection to 'our heritage, our land,' and serves as a tribute to the resilience and empowerment of African communities. It's my way of sharing the beauty and diversity of Senegal with the world.
What should our guests be most excited to see in your exhibition?
I hope attendees will be captivated by the vibrant colours, expressive themes, and overall aura of this exhibition. However, beyond their immediate experience here, I am even more curious about how it will spark interest in my other works.
Lastly, How do you relate to the word "sis"?
There is a strong power in sisterhood especially for black people, we want to vouch for each other and be there for each other and that is my vision of the meaning of sis.
Ọ̀KẸ́ is on a mission to unveil cultural riches, showcasing our similarities and experiences in each exhibition. Find out more about Hey Sis...
Hey Sis is supported by STACKT and RADRCanada.
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