In celebration of Black History Month – an exhibition in Joe’s Lounge
Meet the artist: Saturday February 3, 2pm – 4pm
Distant Shores New Horizons is about the artist’s journey from Africa to England to the prairies of Canada, finally settling on the West Coast.
Ezmina Samaroo’s story is told through landscapes and seascapes; leaving all that is familiar, to arrive at those distant shores facing new horizons.
“Movement of peoples is a complex story, it is not unique, or solely mine. It is a story that is shared by immigrants, refugees and enslaved peoples of the world. Through the lens of this artist, it is a story not of despair and fear, but of courage, resolve and determination.
Throughout my life, there has been little that has inspired me as much as the world around me, the changing landscapes of the countries I have called home. The colours, the sights, the sounds, the smells, the feelings of extreme heat and cold and everything in between. These are all part of the tapestry of my life, and I am grateful to have this opportunity to share them with you,” says Samaroo in her artist’s statement.
Samaroo is an artist painting primarily in oils whilst exploring a variety of other mediums. She is continually learning through exploration, workshops and study. Her aim is to highlight the essence of the world through simplicity, with a focus on shape, line and form.
Born in Mombasa, Kenya with ancestral roots in India, Samaroo spent many years in London, UK before finding a new home in Canada. The unknown has been a close companion to her through the years, and courage has been an unexpected gift.
The artist is deeply grateful to reside on the traditional, unceded and ancestral territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, shíshálh and Tla’amin, Nations.
To watch a video of this exhibition, check out our YouTube channel.