Exhibition explores women's perspectives

Dong Huiping, curator of the show, says the event is the first time that renowned Chinese and Canadian female artists are jointly participating in a show. And it's easy to find the influence of major Western art schools of the 20th century－cubism, fauvism, impressionism and abstractionism－on these artists, especially in the works of Canadian artists.

"There are also differences in terms of culture. While the Canadian artists are influenced by Aboriginal culture in Canada, their Chinese counterparts' works are influenced by Chinese traditional culture," says Dong.

For instance, painter Zhang Yanzi uses concepts from traditional Chinese medicine to reflect her experiences of pain and happiness, while Peng Wei paints copies of ancient Chinese ink paintings onto shoes, boots, clothes and even the limbs of female mannequins.

Dong says that no matter what kind of media these female artists use, it would be appropriate to describe their works as poems from their hearts instead of saying they are creating artworks, because many of the works are related to their feelings and lives.

The show is organized by Poly Culture North America Investment Co, which is committed to international cultural exchanges with China and the development of the local art market.

The show, which runs through Jan 31, is part of a series cultural events held by Poly Culture North America to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the founding of Canada this year.

Previously, it has held shows including the Exquisite Chinese Jades Throughout the Ages and The Beauty and Allure of Chinese Painting: Qi Baishi and Wu Changshuo's Twelve Landscape Screens.