My work is deeply rooted in the exploration of historical and personal narratives through projects that are often presented in serial form. I seek to represent a variety of conceptual domains, ranging from the impacts of colonialism and capitalism, to local myths, while also addressing my own experiences of the land. This land, which bears the traces of the struggles between Indigenous peoples, immigrants and colonial forces, becomes a space where I question the socio-political layers and environmental changes that they have brought about. I interweave archival images, found objects and samples collected in vacant lots to create quilts, which become metaphors for forgotten or invisible anecdotes. These memory and symbolism-laden materials open up a space to reflect on ever-changing identities and ecologies. In the process, I create visual allegories that explore the intersections between personal, local and global concerns, while contributing to the collective memory of these places.

An artist who holds a degree in visual and media arts from UQAM, Cristel Silva Silva is interested in the notion of the land and how it leads to a reflection on individual and collective identity. Her multidisciplinary work encompasses the textile, photography and installation, mediums and focuses on nature in urban spaces as a means of fragmenting power structures. She has participated in several group exhibitions, and her work has been shown at the Jean Brillant workshops, the artch festival and the Fais-moi l'art gallery. Originally from Mexico, she lives and works in Montreal.

Instagram: @limbossa_

Cristel Silva was selected by Centre SAGAMIE as part of the “Plein solo” project, supported by artch - art contemporain émergent. The artist is undertaking a residency in preparation for her solo exhibition, to be presented in our gallery space on April 24 2025.

This project has been made possible thanks to the financial support of the Quebec government.