I am a Colombian-born visual artist currently based in Montreal, Canada. I tell stories through figurative terracotta sculptures inspired by pre-Columbian traditions. My characters and idols reference the past while reflecting my perspective as a Latinx woman growing up in Canada. I use clay to reconnect with my Indigenous ancestry, whose traditions have faded due to assimilation. The past serves as a guiding light for the future, and my work bridges these timelines by merging imaginative animals and figures to explore contemporary issues such as climate change and mental health.
My sculptures delve into themes of renewal, rebirth, and the duality of energies, often represented by double-headed snakes and birds that embody ancestral wisdom and environmental warnings. I use reptilian motifs that symbolize adaptability and regeneration, juxtaposed with the stark realities of climate-related destruction. The jaguar, a recurring figure in my work, signifies mental strength, power, and a divine connection. Drawing from pre-Columbian mythologies, I create pieces that reflect the hybridity of my experiences and perspectives as a Latinx woman navigating life in Canada.
Researching pre-Columbian art and postcolonial theory informs my understanding of colonization's lingering effects on individuals and societal systems. Through my art, I aim to decolonize narratives, preserve and uplift my culture, and honor the earth by using organic processes. My work is a testament to my heritage and commitment to honor the earth.
Kimberly Orjuela earned her B.F.A. from Concordia University in 2023. In 2022, she participated in a residency at the Guldagergaard – International Ceramics Research Center in Denmark. Recognized for her work, she was selected for the National Council on Education for the Ceramics Arts (NCECA) Multicultural Fellowship in 2024. Her art has been exhibited both nationally and internationally, including notable showcases at galleries and the Outsider Art Fair in New York City. Her work is part of esteemed collections such as Collection Majudia and the Gardiner Museum.
Kimberly has two solo exhibitions in Montreal: at Galerie Hugues Charbonneau in January 2025 and at the McClure Gallery in February 2025. Additionally, her work will feature in the 2025 NCECA Multicultural Fellowship group exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Utah in March 2025.
SOLO EXHBITIONS + Upcoming
What Kind of Ancestor you want to be?
Caravanserail. Rimouski, Québec
Summer 2026
NCECA Multicultural Fellowship Exhibition (group)
Utah Museum of Contemporary Art.
Utah, United States
Winter 2025
Our Minds Create our Reality McClure Gallery. Montréal, Québec
Winter 2025
Spiritual Roots
Galerie Hugues Charbonneau. Montréal
Winter 2025
Eternal Tales
Maison de la Culture NDG. Montréal, Québec
Fall 2024
COLLECTIVE EXHIBITIONS
Inter-Medio
Jano Lapin Gallery
Montréal, Québec
Winter 2025
Radar
Galerie Hugues Charbonneau
Montréal, Québec
Spring 2024
Officium Alma’s Gallery.
Richmond, Unites States
Winter 2024
Del la Tierra al Cielo Casa Taller El Boga.
Mompox, Colombia
Winter 2024
Artch Festival 6th Edition Artch.
Montréal, Québec
Fall 2023
Tianguis de Céramica Tap Art Space.
Montréal, Québec
Summer 2023
Graduation Exhibition Vav Gallery.
Montréal, Québec
Summer 2023
Everything Already Present Art-Mùr.
Montréal, Québec
Winter 2023
ART FAIRS
Outsider Art Fair New York, United States
Winter 2024
RESIDENCIES
Casa Taller El Boga Mompox, Colombia
Winter 2024
Atelier 43 art
The Belgo Bulding Montréal, Québec
2023-24
Guldagergaard – International Ceramics Research Center
Skælskor, Denmark
Spring 2022
AWARDS/GRANTS
Canada Council for the Arts
Concept to Realization Canada
2024
NCECA Multicultural Fellowship Richmond, Unites States
2024
Creation Grant ARTCH Montréal, Canada
2023
CCSL Special Project funding Concordia University.
Montréal, Québec
2023
Elspeth McConnell Fine Arts Internship Award
Concordia University.
Montréal, Québec
2022
Best Drawing Award John Abbott College.
Montréal, Québec
2017