

During my recent European trip, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the vibrant art scene of Venice, Italy for the first time. The city was hosting two major art exhibitions simultaneously – the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia (https://www.labiennale.org/en/art/2024) and the European Cultural Centre’s 7th edition titled “Personal Structures” (https://europeanculturalcentre.eu/). Both exhibitions highlighted an incredibly diverse collection of artworks spanning across various genres, making it an art lover’s paradise.
I felt a strong personal connection to the European Cultural Centre’s exhibition since I had received an invitation to exhibit in the 2024 edition. Unfortunately, I was unable to secure a funding package at that time. However, I am pleased to share that I have been invited to exhibit in 2026, and I am looking forward to the opportunity.
The first and critical step in preparing the 2026 exhibition is to select an engaging theme and scope out supporting images. Following this, I will develop an exhibition budget, and seek grants and sponsorships from organizations and individuals.
I made sure to visit the European Cultural Centre’s biannual exhibition, which allowed me to see the inspiring current exhibition and explore the facilities. During my visit, I also had the opportunity to personally meet Elena Volpato and Bérénice Freytag, staff coordinating the photography section.

After my art adventure in Venice, I continued my journey to Arles in southern France for the 2024 Rencontres de la Photographie (https://www.rencontres-arles.com/en), a prestigious photography festival. Since 1970, this annual event has highlighted exhibitions across Arles’ exceptional historic sites. As a major influence in disseminating the finest global photography, the festival has served as a springboard for photographic and contemporary creative talents.

Attending the festival was a special opportunity as I had received an invitation to the opening reception of OPENEYE’s “Minotaure” exhibition. OPENEYE (https://openeyelemagazine.fr/), a prominent French web-magazine, has been a valuable platform for my work. After connecting with Pierre Evard of OPENEYE through social media, my “Feast” images were featured in the web-magazine. The warm welcome I received from Pierre and OPENEYE’s Philippe Litzler at the exhibition opening further strengthened our connection.
As an artist, being present at the festival is crucial for fully immersing in the exhibits, attending panel discussions, and engaging with different activities. I spent four nights in Arles, with most of a day being travel time. In hindsight, I realize that I should have planned to stay for at least a week to take full advantage of the festival.
You have the choice of reaching Arles either by car or by train from a central location, such as Barcelona. This ensures convenient access to Arles and allows for a seamless transition to an Air Canada flight for the return journey to Canada. Moreover, Barcelona offers an excellent opportunity to connect with FotoNostrum Mediterranean House of Photography, the gallery I collaborate with, and other important contacts in the city.
During my visit to Venice and Arles, I was moved by the artwork by several artists. I look forwarded to exploring the artists’ background.
The Foundation Vincent van Gogh – Arles, France

Arles is not just known for photography. Vincent van Gogh moved to Arles on 20 February 1888. After two years in Paris, he was tired of the bustle and demands of city life and longed for the sunshine and vibrant colors of the south. Vincent was highly productive during this period and made several paintings and drawings in and around Arles. He developed an expressive, individual painting style characterized by bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes.
While in Arles, I took advantage of visiting the museum dedicated to van Gogh’s artwork.