Blog Post

Artist Spotlight: Joy Kinna

  • By Aly Shearer
  • 05 May, 2023

Joy Kinna is an abstract artist out of Vancouver Canada and we are so excited to share a little bit more about her with you. 

Joy Kinna in her studio standing in front of a stack of paintings with her arms crossed over her chest and a sweater over her shoulders.  shot by Brit Gill Photography
Joy Kinna shot by Brit Gill Photography

What are three things you cannot go a day without?

Decent sleep, breakfast, and taking photos.
looking over Joy Kinna's shoulder as she paints. shot by Brit Gill Photography
Joy Kinna shot by Brit Gill Photography

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

When I decided to pursue a degree in visual arts it became more "real", and I could actually start to see myself as an artist. Slowly I continued to grow into this confidence. When I began selling work and realized I was creating a business and a career, it just made sense. There is still self-doubt, humbling moments, and deep gratitude where you ask yourself "Am I really an artist?" but that's all part of the journey.
Joy Kinna in her studio standing in front of large paintings. She holds one of the edges of a large painting with her right hand and looks at the painting contemplatively. shot by Brit Gill Photography
Joy Kinna shot by Brit Gill Photography

When did you start creating?

I was always creative as a child. I remember trying to catch up to my older brothers drawing skills (I never really did!). I found abstract painting at university and never turned back. As a kid, it felt like making things was in my blood, it's how I processed life - pain, curiosity, creativity, wonder, pain, all of it. I was always happiest when I was using my hands.
Joy Kinna's hand painting , slightly blurred by movement, shot by Brit Gill Photography
Joy Kinna shot by Brit Gill Photography

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Truly, everyday experiences capture my attention. Maybe it's a colour, a memory or some idea/thought that has been on my mind for some time. These daily interactions make their way into my work. On top of that, I am really inspired by living on the coast. The landscape, the colours, the feeling of being close to the ocean. I want my work to emulate the same peace you feel when you're in nature.
Joy Kinna walking past her large paintings, blurred with movement. in the corner of the shot there is an opaque white chair that has a light inside, giving it the appearance of it glowing.  shot by Brit Gill Photography
Joy Kinna shot by Brit Gill Photography

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

I love this question. The biggest piece of advice would be to enjoy the process. Being an artist isn't the most linear career, but it's so rewarding. Ride the highs and lows and keep staying true to yourself and your artistic voice.
Joy Kinna  crouching over a painting as she works on it. She looks into the camera and smiles with paintbrush and water bucket in hand. shot by Brit Gill Photography
Joy Kinna shot by Brit Gill Photography
I hope you fall in love with Joy's work a little bit more after getting to know her a little better. Click here to read her bio and see the works she currently has available or reach out via email at hello@lizlidgett.com to talk commissions. 
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