As part of the BCN Residency Programme 2023/24, Zara Masood, artist in residence during February 2024 was interviewed by Project Co-ordinator Rene Francis-McBrearty. Read the interview in full below.
Rene: What are you up to for your BCN residency?
Zara: “As an artist and writer, language is at the centre of my work. So, I'll be writing and collaging and playing with materials that create a narrative exploring the diasporic experience. I will also be hosting some workshops at The Wolverhampton School of Art to create a space for discussion around the topic of diaspora, centring lived experience of being racialised."*
*If anyone is interested in taking part in Zara's project please get in touch with Rene (Project Co-ordinator) at renefrancis-mcbrearty@multistory.org.uk / 07562 980384
Rene: What got you into making art?
Zara: “I suppose asking questions got me into making art. And daydreaming. And Art Attack. A huge combination of things really. But I think I really fell in love with making when I started painting, although I don't paint that much anymore, I always go back to it when I'm in a funk."
Rene: Who or what is inspiring you right now (other artists, people, music, food, a book, land, nature… anything!)?
Zara: “I really enjoyed Exodus Crooks' Epiphany: Temporaire. I saw it in last summer in Brixton, but it's moving to the IKON and it was brilliant. Really moving. The different spaces they created allow you to linger in deeply personal moments and sparked joy and sadness. The use of furniture, personal archives and text just click together."
This interview took place on 7 February, 2024. Find Zara Masood on Instagram.
I suppose asking questions got me into making art. And daydreaming. And Art Attack. A huge combination of things really.”
Zara Masood