Benoît Charra

I am a visual artist and illustrator based in Montréal, Canada, whose work consists primarily of large acrylic paintings. Each piece begins with a black ink drawing projected on canvas, establishing a flexible structure from which the painting develops organically and intuitively.

 

Color plays an uncertain and exploratory role in my practice. Suffering from red-green color blindness, I do not plan my palettes in advance and do not rely on traditional color theory. My color choices are spontaneous, guided by contrast, form, and instinct.

 

A 1994 documentary about Robert Crumb profoundly influenced my artistic approach, shaping my understanding of drawing, authenticity, and personal vision in art. This influence led me toward a more direct, authentic, and process-oriented approach.

 

In the early 2000s, I studied fine arts for two years at Concordia University in Montréal. Since then, I have worked primarily outside traditional art circles, developing my practice independently for many years. Although I have created sculptures in the past, I now focus on painting and illustration.

 

After a long period of working privately, I am now beginning to share my work publicly. I currently work in my studio at Atelier 3333 in Montréal.