Higher Aspirations

Earlier this year I curated and organized an art and science exhibit at the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, called Higher Aspirations. The exhibit featured the work of renowned artist, the late Sohan Qadri, along with selected pieces by Vancouver artists.

Having the art work inside the lab environment has been absolutely amazing, encouraging researchers to examine the science in bolder and more creative ways. One of the local artists, exhibiting his work was Cyrus McEachern, whose collaboration with his friend, Eva Markvoort, a double lung transplant recipient, and their work with BC Transplant has resulted in a significant increase in online donor registration rates in BC.

In the words of Robert Kennedy, during his speech at the University of Cape Town in 1966: “High aspirations and deep convictions are not incompatible with the most practical and efficient of programmes - there is no inconsistency between ideals and realistic possibilities, no separation between the deepest desires of heart and mind and the rational application of human efforts to human problems.”

Here is your space to play

"Children of the senses, here is your space to play" Sohrab Sepehri, Dar Golestaneh

Sohrab Sepehri - Dar Golestaneh by Soley

I've recently finished a painting that yet again was inspired by Sohrab Sepehri's poem, Dar Golestaneh. In searching online for the translation of the poem I came across this video. Hearing the warmth of Soley's voice is a reminder of the young spring days at Khanghah.

Creative space

I love my new creative space. It is too bad that it is temporary, then again, what isn't. Meanwhile, I am enjoying the space.

It is much larger, with more empty space and high ceilings, and in a way it is influencing the direction my art is taking. Exciting.