Visual Artist - Cristian Celis. By Amy Griffith

Cristian Celis (Cristian Nicolas Celis Fernandez) is a third-year visual art student at Simon Fraser University, School of Contemporary Art. Originally from Colombia, Cristian moved to Vancouver four years ago to grasp the English language, explore a brand new culture and community, and most importantly, study his art.

Q: What’s your background?

A: I am from Columbia. I renew my student permit each year in order to continue studying here.

Here is the National Anthem of the Republic of Colombia, 

this will give you a good idea of his background and where he is from.

Q: Name something you love, and why.

A: Traditional art such as Renaissance Art. I am mostly interested in realistic paintings.

A piece of work by Cristian Celis.

Q: What jobs have you done other than being an artist?

A: Fast food in Vancouver. I can’t remember what the place was called. It was awful, only two of us working at a time in a small space. Oh ya, Triple-Os! I only stayed there for two months.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

A: “If you have the opportunity to study outside of Colombia, do it”.

A drawing by Cristian Celis

Q: What do you like about your work?

A: I’m trying to revive art. There’s a difference between good and bad art. If anyone can do it, it is not good art.

Throughout the hour-long questionnaire with Cristian, his shy although kind personality began to open up as we shared stories and many laughs in between the few questions we exchanged.

Cristian taught me about Colombia and told me about pieces of his home he keeps close, such as a traditional poncho he brings with him to colder climates. I began to tell him how I have tried to learn Spanish on my own for a few years now. After the shocked expression had left his face he seemed thrilled and was happy to help me practice if I ever needed it. Gracias, Cristian.

Cristian also told me about his family. He told me how his older brother moved away from home before him and ended up coming back to Colombia after some time. Cristian became inspired and decided that he was going to follow in his brother's footsteps (without the coming back part). He then went off to Vancouver to study and lucky for him, he has found himself quite comfortable here. Perfecting his English, making new friends and continuing to study, create and explore.

By: Amy Griffith