New space for local artists

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There’s a little known artist from Hamilton who’s worked on some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters and now he’s giving back by donating space to the group that gave him his start. Tomorrow the new Immigrant Culture and Art Association will open its doors at a new location.

Marufa Shinwari is the executive director of the Immigrant Culture and Art Association, it’s a place where those who are new to this country can learn art or continue their trade. Today they are hanging the work of 10 featured artists for tomorrow’s open house.

Started in 2002, the ICAA focused on teaching art to immigrant youth. In the past 14 years over a thousand students have taken classes in paint, dance and music. Their new home will offer more classes, free to those who are low income or new to Canada.

Abdullah Taraky is a concept artist who helped imagine the look and feel of this fighting scene on the blockbuster film Deadpool. He has also worked on The Avengers: Age of Ultron and Ant Man. After immigrating from Afghanistan, his mother Marufa and father Yar helped create the ICAA. Abdullah began at the centre and now owns the building on Barton. He donated the space, rent free for 10 years, that’s the equivalent of $60 000 because it is a part of his home.

The open house starts Wednesday afternoon at 689 Barton St. East.