Dennis Ward Sits down with Artist, Kent Monkman | APTN FaceToFace

Summary

In this episode of 'Face to Face,' Dennis Ward interviews Canadian visual and performance artist Kent Monkman, known for his work in painting, film, and installation. Monkman, of Cree ancestry, discusses his early artistic journey, the evolution of his unique voice, and his thought-provoking exhibition 'Shame and Prejudice,' which challenges historical narratives and explores the complex history of indigenous people in Canada. The conversation delves into Monkman's use of various mediums, the significance of his alter ego, Miss Chief Eagle Testickle, and his advice for aspiring artists, offering insights into his creative process and the importance of storytelling in art.

Takeaways

• 🎨 Kent Monkman, a Canadian visual and performance artist of Cree ancestry, uses various mediums such as painting, film, video, and installation to express his art.
• 🌟 His recent work, 'Shame and Prejudice: A Story of Resilience', is a touring exhibition that confronts historical and contemporary issues faced by indigenous people in Canada.
• 🏡 Monkman's upbringing in Winnipeg, with its high indigenous population, significantly influenced his work, prompting him to bring an indigenous perspective to his art.
• 🖼️ His art challenges the traditional representations of indigenous people in museums and historical narratives, often through the use of dioramas that subvert expectations.
• 👨‍🎨 Monkman's artistic journey was shaped from a young age, with his family's encouragement playing a key role in his development as an artist.
• 🏛️ 'Shame and Prejudice' was created as a response to Canada 150, aiming to provoke thought and reflection on the past 150 years from an indigenous viewpoint.
• 👥 Monkman collaborates with a team in his studio, adopting a Western classical model of an artist and his atelier to create more and better work.
• 🌆 His work also focuses on urban settings, particularly the north end of Winnipeg, to remind viewers of the indigenous history and presence in cities.
• 👩‍🎨 Monkman's alter ego, Miss Chief Eagle Testicle, is a central character in his performance art, challenging historical narratives and representing indigenous sexuality and gender.
• 📚 He encourages aspiring artists to get trained, stay true to their vision, and be open to learning and collaboration across different mediums.

Q & A

How did Kent Monkman first discover his passion for the arts?

Kent Monkman discovered his passion for the arts at a very young age, around four years old, and he has identified as an artist ever since. His family encouraged his artistic pursuits from the beginning.

What challenges did Kent Monkman face on his journey to becoming a professional artist?

Kent Monkman faced numerous obstacles on his path to becoming a professional artist, including finding his own artistic voice and creating a unique style that set him apart from others. It took many years of trial and error before he developed a mature artistic vision around 15 years ago.

How did Kent Monkman's upbringing in Winnipeg influence his work?

Kent Monkman's indigenous background and his experiences growing up in Winnipeg, with its high indigenous population, have significantly shaped his perspective and work. He addresses the disparity between how indigenous people are represented in museums and their real-life experiences.

What inspired Kent Monkman to create dioramas as part of his artistic practice?

Kent Monkman was inspired to create dioramas as a way to challenge and twist the narratives often presented by settler artists and museum practices. He uses dioramas to present alternative perspectives on indigenous people and their experiences.

Can you describe the 'Shame and Prejudice' exhibition and its significance?

The 'Shame and Prejudice' exhibition is a response to Canada's 150th anniversary, aiming to reflect on the last 150 years from an indigenous perspective. It covers historical periods such as the signing of treaties, the residential school system, and the impact of colonial policies on indigenous people, presented through Monkman's artistic vision.

What was the public reaction to the 'Shame and Prejudice' exhibition?

The public reaction to the 'Shame and Prejudice' exhibition has been largely positive, with many people resonating with the work, especially the painting depicting the removal of children for residential schools, which went viral on social media.

How does Kent Monkman approach creating his artwork, and what is his studio process like?

Kent Monkman works with a team of assistants in his studio, adopting a Western classical model of an artist and his atelier. He collaborates with painters, a sculptor, and other artists to create his work, finding this collaborative approach enhances the quality and quantity of his creations.

What themes does Kent Monkman explore in his urban-focused paintings?

In his urban-focused paintings, Kent Monkman explores themes related to the indigenous population living in cities like Winnipeg. He addresses issues such as the living conditions of indigenous people, teen suicides, incarceration rates, and the ongoing institutionalization of indigenous people.

Can you explain the character 'Mischeif' and her role in Kent Monkman's work?

Mischeif, also known as Miss Eagle Testicle, is Kent Monkman's alter ego and a central character in his work. She is an empowered indigenous figure that challenges the European male gaze and discusses topics like indigenous sexuality, gender, and the existence of two-spirit people. Mischeif has evolved from a painting character to a performance art persona and a central figure in Monkman's films and videos.

What advice does Kent Monkman have for young artists looking to pursue a career in the arts?

Kent Monkman advises young artists to get trained, improve their skills, stay true to their vision, and be open and curious. He emphasizes the importance of learning the basics and then using those skills to express oneself creatively.

How does Kent Monkman feel about Canada's 150th anniversary celebrations, and what does he hope Canadians will consider?

Kent Monkman hopes that Canadians will educate themselves about indigenous history and consider the impact of the last 150 years on indigenous people during the celebrations. He encourages Canadians to read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's report and take steps towards reconciliation.