Here I Am 2026

Here I Am presents the work of 14 artists who have recently relocated to Canada, specifically Alberta, bringing with them a rich and compelling range of cultural backgrounds and experiences. Relocating to a new country involves a complex set of challenges that include navigating unfamiliar customs, languages, and environments. Each artist approaches this journey through a unique lens. How do their cultural traditions persist or evolve at a distance from their former homes? In what ways do memory, identity, and displacement shape their creative expression? This exhibition offers insight into how these artists are influenced by both their past and present physical and social environments. It explores how these influences are reflected in their work as they begin to establish themselves within a new cultural landscape. In doing so, the exhibition emphasizes not only the artworks themselves but the also deeply human experiences that inform them. All participating artists are part of the ICAI NAPP program, which supports newcomer artists through mentorship within the arts communities of Edmonton and Calgary. The exhibition also underscores the vital role of mentorship and community in fostering artistic growth and integration. Accompanying each artwork is a short statement from the artist, reflecting on their personal and creative development. These statements offer further perspective on how mentorship and engagement with a new artistic community have shaped their evolving world. Produced by The Works Art & Design Festival. Organized by Art Sales & Rental Artists: Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation, NAPP Cohort 4: Alira, Anastasiia Plitina, Ashay Vaidya, Bari, Enrique Ruelas, Kateryna Zozulia, Kseniia Koshami, Macarena Osorio, Oleg Buyanov, Raha Jazayeri, Razi Pourhassan, Sayeh Taheri, Victor Olayiwola, Yevheniia Vasylkova