Get to Know Karissa

Karissa Narukami is a Natural-Born Artist from Richmond, BC, Canada, whose intuitive creativity seems without end.

Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at a young age, and gifted with topographic memory, for Karissa, the Art is a means of self-expression and communication. Although, it is difficult to get an exact answer to the question about her goals, we can only assume that her main intention in the process of creating her pieces of art is an attempt to establish communication with the outside world, to show others her feelings and sensations.
 

With no formal art training, Karissa’s art speaks volumes. Her art is a visual language, rich in emotion and full of vibrant energy. She has developed a distinctive and raw style, using a unique ‘ice-pick’ grasp to create dynamic and expressive works, bringing her visions to life. She carefully selects her materials based on how they interact with her senses, she might choose certain brushes because they are soothing to her. She paints in a controlled environment, where she can regulate light, noise, and other factors. These helps her to stay focused and productive.

Karissa creates pieces that explore themes of emotions, identity, and perception. Her art allows her to express the complex ways she interacts with the world, offering viewers a glimpse into her internal landscape. Her pieces are rich in colour, texture, and movement. She works very meticulously with colour and loves small detail. The letters and hieroglyphs of different languages seem to her like magic images. She loves different symbols in ornaments, tries to read them and create her own. She has an amazing imagination which is evident in all her artwork.

Karissa’s art pieces have been showcased three times in one-person exhibition in galleries, and numerous times with other local and international artists. She has made public works through ‘The Karissa Narukami Autism Foundation’, that addresses Free Art Classes for Children & Youth with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities, sponsored a feeding program, and providing art supplies internationally. Recipient of Top Visual Art Award, PWD Champion of Arts, nominated on Excellence Awards in Arts & Culture, Canada. Recognized her artistic achievement at Pinacotheque Museum, Luxembourg, Norval Morrisseau Awardee for Visual Arts. She has received broad support for her work from the community, numerous recognitions from Legislative Assembly’s, Mayors, and most notably from the Premier of British Columbia.
 

In a remarkable achievement, Karissa’s 2 original art pieces were capsuled and sent to the Moon in The Lunar Codex – a project mission by NASA, forever immortalizing her vision in the vast expanse of space. Codex Minerva was launched in time capsule from Earth to the Moon, landed March 6, 2025 via NASA CLPS-TO-CP11 Mission.
Codex Polaris, carrying 4 of Karissa’s artworks called ‘The Karissa Narukami Collection’ will be launching to the Moon NET Dec 2025 via NASA CLPS-TO-20A Mission.
 

This honour not only speaks to the uniqueness of her work but also highlights the universal power of art to transcend barriers—whether they be physical, verbal, or even celestial.

Despite the challenges of Autism, Karissa Narukami has found solace and empowerment in her Art, and her pieces are a testament to her resilience, creativity, and individuality. She hopes that her work will inspire others to embrace their unique perspectives and find their own voice.

“If I can do it, so can you.”
       - Karissa Narukami