Behind the Lines: Contemporary Syrian Art

×

Expand

Fadi Al-Hamwi, "Gloating," 2016

oil on canvas, 62" x 62.5" Image courtesy of Paul Crawford.

Behind the Lines: Contemporary Syrian Art is an exhibition organized and circulated by the Penticton Art Gallery, in partnership with Cyrrus Gallery, Damascus. Featuring close to one hundred paintings, photos, videos, and sculptures created by twenty contemporary Syrian artists, this exhibition provides a unique window into the lives and minds of those affected by the devastating civil war through their art. Individually and collectively their powerful work stands as a testament to their existence and affirms the incredible capacity of the human spirit to not only survive the most unimaginable circumstances, but to thrive. In the midst of a conflict that has gripped the entire world, this exhibition is meant to build a greater understanding of the Syrian People, their art, rich culture, history, and the turmoil their country is undergoing.

Reduced versions of Behind the Lines: Contemporary Syrian Art have been shown in small venues across British Columbia, Alberta, and the Yukon for over a year. This presentation at The Reach not only represents an opportunity for the exhibition to be shown again in its entirety, it will also include several new works not previously exhibited. As Abbotsford welcomed several hundred Syrian refugees in 2016, this exhibition represents an important opportunity for these newcomers to see their culture featured prominently and celebrated in their new community. Several Arabic-language tours will be offered while the exhibition is on display, and an Arabic translation of the exhibition catalogue is being organized.