Join us on August 31st for the opening reception of Rice Cooker by local artist Chris Perez from 7pm - 10pm.

In his first solo exhibition, Chris Perez departs from his previous works in abstraction and dives into an exploration of Asian-Canadian culture with the use of a popular household appliance. Rice Cooker is a self-reflective work of community, belonging, and cultural identity through paintings, murals, and other media. Using floral patterns commonly found on Asian rice cookers, Perez creates stunning images centred around diaspora, the cultural melting pot, and what it means to be an Asian-Canadian. This new series comes after spending extensive time participating in curated group shows, community events, workshops, live painting competitions, and commissioned mural work throughout North America. Painting in abandoned, forgotten, or spaces not usually used by artists is an integral part of Perez’s practice

My work is a study of personal and cultural identity through the use of abstraction and floral designs. I merge these themes by balancing structured form and spontaneity in order to depict the beauty found in self-discovery. I reference the florals from designs often found on rice cookers, an appliance that plays a significant role in Asian culture. Many major cities around the world have a Chinatown, which signifies the broad influence of Asian customs, traditions, and overall culture. Toronto’s East Chinatown location is site specific, the presence amplify the abundance of culture that it entails. This work explores my interpretation of searching for a median between what it means to be Canadian and what it means to be Asian.

We grow up with different cultures but we ultimately construct our own identity.

He will be hosting a drop in spray paint workshop and an artist talk within the upcoming week of Sept 2-8th. Please stay tuned!

Details of the workshop and artist talk will be posted on his website www.chrisperez.ca the day after the opening reception.