Lexington’s new Global Engagement Center held a reception Thursday to celebrate the opening of a temporary art exhibit.
People crowded into Global Lex to see works from four Middle Eastern artists. Consisting of three Iraqis and one Iranian who are all Lexington residents, the group displayed a range of works, including paintings of Arabian horses, devotional calligraphy, and digital photos. Multicultural Affairs Coordinator Isabel Taylor says the exhibit is part of the way the Center can act as a sort of gathering place.
“A place where foreign born artists can meet local artists and a place where we can showcase the wealth and the richness and the variety of culture and arts that we have here in Lexington,” she said.
Visitors at Thursday’s reception got the chance to meet with the artists, discuss their work, and learn more about the Middle East. Iranian artist Farzin Sadr said he was pleasantly surprised by the turnout.
"It’s incredible. I feel honored to be included. I didn’t know what to expect actually for tonight, but the event exceeded my expectations," he said.
The other artists, Anwar Abdulmajeed, Aous Alnaasree, and Hana Kanbour, were equally pleased. Their exhibit is open to the public at Global Lex’s Gallery on 1306 Versailles Road, and will be on display until January 4th.
Taylor says this exhibit is the second to focus on the Middle East, as last month, they featured Ottoman-style paintings from artist Haydar Hatemi. The Center plans to change its front exhibits every month or two, with January's to focus on China.
More information on Global Lex can be found at its website.
