Benoît Charra

I am a visual artist and illustrator based in Montreal, Quebec, focused on large-scale acrylic paintings on canvas. Each work begins with a black ink drawing projected onto the canvas, establishing a loose structure from which the painting evolves organically and intuitively.

 

Color plays an uncertain and exploratory role in my practice. Due to a red–green color vision deficiency, I do not pre-plan palettes or rely on traditional color theory. Instead, color decisions are made in the moment, guided by contrast, form, and instinct.

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An important early influence on my approach was the 1994 documentary on Robert Crumb, which shaped how I think about drawing, honesty, and personal vision in art. This influence pushed me toward a more direct, unfiltered, and process-driven way of working.

 

I studied fine arts for two years in the early 2000s at Concordia University in Montreal. Since then, I have worked largely outside of formal art spaces, developing both my painting and illustration practices privately over many years. While I have produced sculptural work in the past, my recent focus has been centered on painting and illustration.

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After a long period of working privately, I am now beginning to share this body of work publicly.