Meet Zianne Cuff | Multimodality Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zianne Cuff and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zianne, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic career because creativity has always been an integral part of who I am. Initially expressing myself through writing, I found immense joy in crafting stories. However, over the past four years, I’ve transitioned into using painting as a medium to visually depict these narratives. This shift has been incredibly therapeutic, allowing me to translate my emotions into tangible forms on canvas. The process of painting has been transformative, serving as a means of healing and self-expression.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
During the pandemic, I turned to painting as a way to navigate the complexities of the world and my own emotions. With a heavy heart and thoughts swirling inside me, I found solace in expressing myself through art. While writing had always been my go-to form of expression, painting offered a new avenue for exploring my innermost thoughts.

Initially, I painted solely for myself, seeking to visually capture the emotions and experiences swirling within me. However, upon sharing my work with my sister—an artist herself—I received encouragement to share it with a wider audience. Despite the inevitable rejections that come with such pursuits, landing opportunities to showcase my art in galleries was both surprising and deeply gratifying.

Through this journey, I’ve realized the importance of remaining authentic to my artistic vision, regardless of whether it resonates with others or fits into prevailing market trends. I began this journey for myself, and that’s how I intend to continue. My art is a dedication to fellow Black artists who, like me, are weary of seeing their pain commodified as the only narrative. Instead, I strive to create beauty and abstraction, offering a different perspective on our experiences.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the MET Gallery! I’m also a frequent visitor of the Brooklyn Museum. I would take my friends to a First Saturday so that they can get a full experience of what it is like to live and love in my hometown, Brooklyn, NY. There used to be a spot called Ode to Babel and, if that were still a thing, we’d spend the night dancing and socializing there. I’d take them to my favorite pizza spot, Artichoke Pizza, afterward and we’d sit outside eating a slice.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to offer a special shoutout to the awkward black girl creatives who are boldly carving out space for themselves in environments where representation is lacking. My art serves as a love letter to you, honoring your resilience and inspiring creativity.

Website: eliloupaints.com

Instagram: @eliloupaints