Our Minds Create Our Reality presents a series of ceramic sculptures that bridge the past and present, drawing on pre-Columbian traditions to address contemporary issues like climate change and mental health. Rooted in a deep reverence for the artist’s Indigenous ancestry, her work pays tribute to history while highlighting the inextricable link between our collective health and that of the planet, and the impact of our environment on our mental equilibrium.
Inspired by Indigenous Colombian beliefs about ancient ceramics as messengers of balance, Kimberly’s sculptures reflect our interconnectedness with nature. Just as inner turmoil can manifest in environmental disorder, healing ourselves can help restore harmony to our surroundings. The care we give to ourselves and to our communities mirrors the care we extend to the Earth.
Kimberly Orjuela is a Colombian-born visual artist currently based in Montreal. Her work explores ways to decolonize our minds by rewriting undervalued histories through clay, preserving her culture, and honouring her ancestors. She channels her creative energy into exploring her cultural and spiritual roots. For her, the act of artmaking is a testament to her commitment to honouring the earth. She received a BFA from Concordia University in 2023. In 2022 she was an artist in residence at the Guldagergaard – International Ceramics Research Center in Denmark, and was selected by the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) for a Multicultural fellowship in 2024. Kimberly’s work has been exhibited internationally in galleries and at the Outsider Art fair in New York City and is included in various collections such as Collection Majudia and The Gardiner Museum. Kimberly will participate in a group exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Utah, in March 2025.
