Seven Stories

PICS invited women and girls of all ages from Iraq, Syria, and Jordan newly living in the Lower Mainland to engage in a cultural exchange, sharing stories of their own culture and past with each other and with PICS. Featuring seven series of photographic works, each set of images speaks to the memories, people, places, and experiences that inspired the project participants. The images are a collaborative production, highlighting both the creativity and the challenges that many newcomers face, as well as how each participant has adapted to, and thrived within, their new homes in the Lower Mainland. At the same time, the project reveals the common humanity among these stories; that, despite the differences in background, many of these stories are relevant to audiences from Canada and elsewhere.

About PICS

The Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society is a Surrey-based not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting harmony and intercultural understanding, for the purpose of building a more inclusive and mutually respectful society. They provide multiple services, including Employment Programs, Settlement Services, Language Services, Social Programs, and Housing Services. PICS is thankful for the support of the Surrey Cultural Grants program.

Curator: Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society

Origin of Exhibition: Surrey Art Gallery