Nimea Ariana embraces kaleidoscopic visions that awaken her sense of existence through the metaphysical, metaphorical, and meditational. Her installation invites visitors to unravel a profound spiritual experience by taking a moment and losing themselves in its multidisciplinary approach and graffiti aesthetic. Her work focuses on exploring the multidimensional layers of our consciousness.
Nimea Ariana, A Journey Into The Unknown, 2019-2024, acrylic on paper, wooden dowels
David Akio Grant is a photographer who travels a lot, having extraordinary experiences, and creating stories filled with kindness. Neither Palestinian nor Israeli, not even Jewish or Muslim, David notes that of course, it is easy for him to stay neutral in this complicated conflict. However, this does not stop him from learning the culture and history of the region through his lens. David also adds embroidery art in his prints, inspired by the practice of Tatreez, a Palestinian embroidery tradition. David considers himself privileged to travel freely in both of those territories.
David Akio Grant in front of his works
Operating in two locations, Toronto and New York, 24/7 callers may leave a message up to three minutes long (do not worry, you can call back if you need more time), telling their most funny, sad, outrageous or disturbing intimate moments with current lovers, former partners or even friends with benefits. This inclusive, LGBTQAI+ installation invites everyone to participate, or just listen. No shame in sharing some spicy content to make everyone feel comfortable about their relationship needs and wants. As we speak, the line has collected roughly 50 stories.
seth.nye on the line, listening to stories
Firouzeh Saremi Far is a multidisciplinary artist who enjoys creating 3-D canvas sculptures that make her client’s walls pop. Far enjoys knowing that her clients know how to incorporate her pieces in their own space. With a combination of blues, greens, and oranges, she brings post-modern royalty into the room with full power and positivity. Her work can be installed on all four walls, thanks to the light use of material.
“f*ck, installation by Firouzeh Saremi Far
Jester is a self-taught painter and sculptor based in Toronto. In this installation, he shares the biggest part of his childhood: cartoons. Jester plays with bright colours, forms, and juxtaposition to bring back the magical optimism of youth. Many visitors took a moment to connect with their nostalgia for hot ’90s summers, cool sprinkles, fresh-cut grass, and hope that cartoon-shaped popsicles will come back looking more recognizable than ever.
Badsicle, 2024, mixed media installation by Ryan Jester
Victor Molev is a Richmond Hill-based artist whose incredible detail in character, jewelry designs, and fantasy-themed drawings has captivated many. Molev paints portraits, jewelry ornaments, fantastic cities and landscapes and even creates Jewish-themed pieces. Molev enjoys contributing to children’s books as well. Victor Molev Gallery has an open house coming up soon on May 4th, 2024.
Victor Molev in his booth
Text and photo: Polyna Alekseev
*Artist Project, April 11 – 14, 2024, Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place, 195 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto. Hours: April 11, 12 & 13, 12 – 8 pm, April 14, 12 – 6 pm.