From the streets to the museum: Hanny Al Khoury's "La La land" journey.

February 19, 2023 at 20:15 PM EST

Edmonton, Alberta Feb 19, 2023 (Issuewire.com) - The art world is often filled with stories of artists who overcame adversity and hardship to achieve greatness. This is certainly the case with Hanny Al Khoury, a young Canadian Palestinian emerging artist whose exhibition opened on Friday 17th at the Art Gallery of Alberta. The exhibition, curated by Lindsey Sharman, is taking place on the 2nd floor in the AGA's RBC gallery and focuses on Al Khoury's personal journey from his meagre beginnings on the streets of Jerusalem to his first show at the walled-off hotel "Bethlehem" and his subsequent emergence onto the Canadian and international art scene.

The exhibition features 11 oil paintings and two sculptures that blend and morph into one another and can shift in meaning as you look at them. Each piece tells a unique story that is both personal and universal, exploring themes of identity, displacement, and the search for belonging. Al Khoury's art is both visceral and emotive, often drawing on the textures and colors of his homeland to create a sense of connection and belonging.

At the heart of Al Khoury's work is the idea that even the rejected by society can still be embraced and have a greater purpose. His story is one of perseverance and determination, of finding his place in the world despite the many challenges he has faced along the way. This message is particularly relevant in today's world, where so many people are struggling to find their place and make a meaningful contribution to society.

The exhibition will be taking place from February 18th until May 21st, giving visitors ample time to explore the many layers and nuances of Al Khoury's work. The exhibition is presented as part of the RBC Emerging Artists Project, which seeks to support and promote the work of young and emerging artists across Canada.

In conclusion, Hanny Al Khoury's exhibition at the Art Gallery of Alberta is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one artist's personal journey from his humble beginnings in Jerusalem to his emergence onto the Canadian and international art scene. Through his art, Al Khoury invites us to explore themes of identity, displacement, and the search for belonging, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.