kya lou (b. san diego, ca) is an artist and filmmaker based in los angeles. their interdisciplinary practice spans motion picture, installation, performance, and photography.
from 2017 to 2021, lou ran a color grading studio under the name coloured only. since then, they have worked as a colorist on an expansive range of commercials, films and art installations. credits include cannes lion winner we are ayenda (2023) , andré 3000: new blue sun imax live experience (2024) , grace (2024) and blknws: terms & conditions (2025).
WITH A FOUNDATION IN POST-PRODUCTION, LOU HAS TRANSITIONED INTO DIRECTING. IN 2024, SHE SERVED AS EDITOR AND CO-DIRECTOR OF A MULTI-CHANNEL INSTALLATION FILM WITH JOSH BEGLEY AND CURATOR ADRIENNE EDWARDS FOR EDGES OF AILEY. MOST RECENTLY, SHE EDITED AND CO-DIRECTED A FOUR-HOUR EXHIBITION FILM BUILT ENTIRELY FROM ARCHIVAL FOOTAGE, COMMISSIONED FOR DEREK FORDJOUR’S EXHIBITION NIGHTSONG.
kya received her b.a. in art from the ucla school of arts and architecture in 2018. lou is a 2025 barbara hammer lesbian filmmaking grant finalist, winner of the 2025 blackstar pitch and a 2026 modern ancient brown foundation fellow.
she is currently working on her solo directorial debut.
colorist inquiries: colouredonly@gmail.com
general inquiries: kya@kyalou.com