Syrian artist Ibrahim Al Hamid says he is "thrilled" to exhibit his painting series called Insights of Immigrant Women, which explores the experiences of immigrant women, and the role that art plays in fostering empathy and connection across communities and cultures.
His son, Fadi, also shared his father’s story and his process for making the artwork through a short video where they highlight the" importance of empathy, compassion, and the solidarity of immigrant women."
"In his paintings, Al Hamid uses a range of colours and brushstrokes to convey the emotional intensity of experience, with a focus on themes of fear, uncertainty, and hope. Layered and textured compositions reflect the layers of identity including strength and resilience that are grown out of a difficult journey," noted a news release from Saanich Community Services.
Al Hamid studied fine arts at Damascus University and began his career as a painter in the 1980s and he "quickly gained recognition for his unique style." He has held numerous solo exhibitions in Syria and other countries throughout the Middle East, however, it was the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011 that brought Al Hamid's work to wider attention.
A free public reception will be held on Aug. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the main gallery of the Cedar Hill Recreation & Arts Centre. "All are invited to attend and enjoy the artwork and film, and meet Fadi Al Hamid," noted the release.
The exhibit runs until Sept. 15. An additional gathering, exhibition and conversation with Fadi and Ibrahim Al Hamid will take place at the Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria on Sept. 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
