The Project
Since 2009, the Open Spaces program has provided exhibition space to local and regional artists while enlivening the Centre Street LRT platform on 7 Ave. between Centre Street and 1 St. SE. Two large display windows on the exterior of the Telus Convention Centre are updated with new exhibits regularly throughout the year.
As of September 2024, Calgary Arts Development is partnering with the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation (ICAI) for the Open Spaces program, fostering artist development and increasing the visibility of newcomer artists in Calgary. This year-long partnership will see a rotation of different artists and exhibits in two window galleries located downtown.
Current Exhibitions
West Window Space
The Artohol
Artist: Elena Faushteyn
Art is an endless space for imagination and realization. There came a point in my life when I could no longer stop creating, and since then, I’ve been exploring various forms of expression. My ideas must surprise me first, as that tells me they might intrigue the audience. People enjoy deciphering the hidden meanings in my works, studying the details. They find joy when they discover logical connections, ask questions and find answers.
My art education does not come from traditional universities or colleges. Instead, I’ve taken neurography masterclasses, right-brain drawing workshops, Reiki energy work, psychological courses, and organized international psychological workshops. I’ve also led art therapy sessions based on my own program. This experience has shaped my art, and many of my works have been purchased for display in psychologists’ offices and public wellness centres.
Over time, I developed my own style, using unconventional materials and surreal imagery. I transform discarded objects into harmonious art pieces, guided by intuition and experience. The goal of my art is personal transformation through creativity — I aim to surprise people, take them out of their routine and awaken their imagination.
In creating this collection, I used medical bandages, lemon wrapping paper, fabric and leather scraps, plaster, metal pieces, oil and acrylic paints, sprays, ropes, chains and other materials gathered by various people at my request. Engaging people in this process was a key part of the project, awakening their interest in art. This type of participation is built on human values, not something that can be bought.
To break the barrier between artist and viewer, I used accessible materials, making the artworks relatable and approachable to the everyday person.
I was born in 1980 in Tiraspol, Moldova. When I was a child, I began to show creative ability but was limited by the constraints of art education. However, I attended painting classes where I could express myself more freely.
By the age of 36, I had already lived in four countries — Moldova, Ukraine, Turkey, Canada— experiencing diverse cultures and traveling extensively. As a mother of two sons, I drew on my emotions and life experiences to fully embrace my identity as an artist. I was eager to explore artistic innovation and began creating art objects in my unique style. A distinctive feature of my style is the use of unconventional and recyclable materials. It often takes a lot of time and effort to create harmonious art objects with the above-mentioned materials to make the audience feel surprised, inspired and filled with energy. My works are based on my own emotions and feelings and aim to transform my audience. Over the past few years, in addition to creating paintings and art pieces, I have also participated in various art projects. I attended private painting classes, illustration and neurography courses, psychological training, right-hemisphere painting training, learned symbolism, astrology and human design, and even attended singing classes.
- Personal exhibition (Odessa 2018).
- Short film, Seagull (Istanbul 2019) took part as an art director and actress.
- Children’s musical, Aladdin (Istanbul 2019), as a stage designer.
- Personal exhibition (Istanbul 2019).
- Musical, Mama Mia (Istanbul 2020), as a stage designer and actress.
- Illustrator of a children’s book (2020).
- Exhibition Karl&Ein gallery (Istanbul 2021).
- Exhibition LaVizion art gallery (Istanbul 2021).
- Exhibition at DEIS Art Gallery (Calgary 2022).
- Exhibition in Central Library (Calgary 2023).
- Personal exhibition in Memorial Library (Calgary 2023).
- Personal exhibition, Looking forwART Knox United Church (Calgary 2023).
- Exhibition in Hispanic Arts Society ( Calgary 2023).
- Exhibition in The Collectors Art Gallery (Calgary 2023).
- Exhibition in Vertigo Theatre (Calgary 2023).
- Exhibition Ritual arts cSpace Marda Loop (Calgary 2023).
- Exhibition in Pumphouse Theatre (Calgary 2024).
- Personal Exhibition, Art-food in Inglewood (Calgary 2024).
- Exhibition in Franz Dopf Gallery (Calgary 2024).
East Window Space
Canada in my eyes
Artist: Fatima Hammoud
As a realist oil painter, I bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, blending timeless traditional techniques with contemporary methods I’ve developed. Inspired by the legends of Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Caravaggio, I infuse my work with a modern twist. Nature’s majesty, intricate details and emotive potential fuel my creative vision. I strive to capture life’s subtleties, inviting viewers to step into serene and awe-inspiring realms.
Through my artistic journey, I’ve discovered unique techniques that complement traditional methods. This fusion allows me to push the boundaries of realism, exploring new depths and dimensions. As an artist and educator, I share my expertise through my YouTube channel, Realism Artist Fatima, “providing step-by-step guidance on mastering Old Masters techniques.” Exhibiting in Saudi Arabia has broadened my audience and portrait commissions have enabled me to tell intimate stories.
My art aims to:
- Revitalize traditional techniques for modern audiences.
- Showcase nature’s breathtaking beauty.
- Foster community among artists and art enthusiasts.
In every brushstroke, I merge heritage and innovation, creating timeless pieces that transcend eras and invite viewers to experience the beauty of art.
Fatima Hammoud is a Pakistani artist. Self-taught and driven by passion, Fatima explores realism through oil painting. Her artistic journey began outside formal training, yet her talent and dedication earned recognition. Notably, her work was showcased at Adham Art Center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Fatima’s portraits have been commissioned by various Saudi Arabian clients. One of her notable works, The Mysterious Lady, was acquired by princess Hayfaa Bent Abdullah Ben Abdulaziz Al Saud. As an educator, Fatima shares her expertise through her YouTube channel (Realism Artist Fatima) covering step-by-step art tutorials.
With a bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition, Fatima’s creative expression has flourished through art. Now residing in Calgary, she continues to create stunning oil paintings that capture life’s essence.
The Open Spaces Program
The Open Spaces: Windows to a View program provides exhibition space to local and regional artists while enlivening the Centre Street LRT platform. From 2023 to 2025, the Calgary Arts Development Open Spaces program will be partnering with different organizations who work with underserved artists in Calgary. Currently, Calgary Arts Development is partnering with the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation.
Established in January 2019, the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation (ICAI) is committed to advancing the careers of immigrant and newcomer arts professionals. Functioning as a pivotal resource for networking and opportunities, ICAI facilitates a smooth transition for immigrant and newcomer arts professionals, nurturing their ongoing professional development in Alberta. As a dedicated non-profit organization, ICAI fosters a supportive environment for our community of immigrant and newcomer arts professionals. Through tailored programming, we ensure inclusivity and provide a welcoming platform for diverse artistic expressions.
For information on the history of Open Spaces, visit the The City of Calgary webpage.