Christina Leslie, Artist – Toronto
Christina Leslie’s lens-based practice delves into decolonization, identity, migration, marginalization, and her West Indian heritage. Using experimental photography and text, she explores the intersections of history, memory, and race to create thought-provoking visual narratives. She holds a BFA from OCAD University (2006) and an MFA from the Savannah College of Art and Design (2022). Currently, she serves as the Interim Assistant Curator at the McMaster Museum of Art in Hamilton. Her photographs have been shown at major institutions worldwide, including GAMU in Prague, Oakland University in Michigan, the Royal Ontario Museum, Canada’s Pier 21, the Art Gallery of Windsor, the Caribbean Art Fair in Jamaica, the McMaster Museum of Art, Paris Photo, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Toronto. She is represented by the Stephen Bulger Gallery in Toronto, and her current solo exhibition, Likkle Acts, is on view at The Robert McLaughlin Gallery until April 13.
- Skating
During the pandemic, staying active was like trying to run in quicksand – gyms were closed, routines were chaos. As a former Zumba instructor, I felt like a potato with legs. So I took my cousin’s advice and bought roller skates – even though I’d never skated as a kid. Surprisingly, it was a blast. Then winter came and I thought, why not make it fancy? Enter ice skating. Now, I’m gliding around twice a week at free community skate sessions, pretending I’m in a winter sports movie, and somehow, it’s working.
- Art book collection
I’ve developed a deep appreciation for collecting art books, particularly those that document exhibitions and showcase the work of inspiring artists. Over the years my shelves have steadily filled with volumes featuring artists whose work I deeply admire. One of my recent acquisitions is Jan Wade: Soul Power, which accompanied her exhibition at the Vancouver Art Gallery and later the Art Gallery of Hamilton. With every new addition, my collection becomes a richer reflection of the art and ideas that resonate with me.
- Summertime in Toronto
There’s something magical about summer in Toronto. It’s like the whole city wakes up from hibernation and bursts into life. I love the energy, the sounds, the smells – even the heat. The longer days feel endless, with sunsets that linger just a little longer. I especially love biking around the Toronto Islands, hitting up festivals, daytime parties, concerts, and just spending time with friends and community. There’s a vibe in the air that’s unmatched – something I haven’t felt in any other city I’ve visited. My girlfriends and I even have a tradition called the Summer Tingz Tour. We create a bucket list of everything we want to experience that season. Last year, we checked off all the items! You can’t sleep on this city when the sun’s out. It’s pure magic.
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3
If you know me, you’ve probably seen my DJI Osmo Pocket 3 glued to my hand. It’s like my tiny, techy sidekick – light enough to go everywhere with me, but powerful enough to capture 4K footage and sound so crisp, like the camera’s whispering sweet nothings in my ear. I’m constantly searching for inspiration, and this little gadget has practically become a third arm, always ready to document whatever random burst of creativity strikes (usually when I least expect it).
- Popcorn + M&M peanuts
Popcorn with M&M peanuts is the snack version of a romance movie: salty, sweet, and full of surprises. It’s like a crunchy love affair that keeps you hooked, and, before you know it, the whole bowl is gone and you’re questioning all your life choices. LOL!