New Voices Exhibition: Mosaic of Being

Iconic Canadian landscapes are made dreamy and wonderous by Iranian Canadian artist Leila Zolfalipour. Ornate Persian rugs envelope figures and objects within these scenes, merging the artist’s love of her new homeland here in Alberta with her rich Iranian heritage.  

As Canadians, we treasure our lands and landscapes. We feel a preciousness towards them, holding them close as part of our national identity. Upon arriving in Canada in 2019, Leila recognised and found kindship with the Canadian love of land. It was a familiar affection, holding the same sweet flavours that she felt towards treasured elements of her own Iranian heritage. Persian textiles, particularly the ornate, richly patterned rugs hold a similar place within the Iranian heart that the land holds for Canadians.  

Mosaic of Being strives to capture the beauty that Leila has found in the meeting of two cultures, a blending of Iranian and Canadian that is now part of her own identity. And she is acutely aware of the fluidity of identity; the many, changing pieces that make up a whole person over a lifetime. She hopes that within the restful solitude of her works, we will remember our own loves and stories and be encouraged to share the most beautiful parts of ourselves with an openness that welcomes everyone. 

Special thanks to the St. Albert Community Foundation, whose support made this exhibition possible.