7:00pm - 10:00pm
Born in 1996 in Syria from a Kurdish family, Bîstyek’s art distills the intricate layers of human experience, weaving personal stories of displacement and resilience into powerful visual narratives that speak to the strength and vulnerability of the human spirit.
Forbidden Colours reflects Bîstyek’s Kurdish identity, personal, familial, and collective. The exhibition visualizes my home, my family, my people, and the colours that shape our culture, traditions, and celebrations.
The night will begin with an exclusive screening of the feature documentary, When I Go Outside directed by Lebanese/Canadian filmmaker, Geordie Sabbagh, followed by a conversation between the artist and director.
Stay afterwards and enjoy the art and a cash bar in the Skylight Gallery!
Directed by
Geordie Sabbagh
Geordie Sabbagh
From movies to serving his community as a volunteer firefighter, Lebanese/Canadian filmmaker Geordie Sabbagh continues to craft stories where sarcasm is the highest form of wit.
Only four awards away from EGOT, his feature films and numerous short films have been screened theatrically and showcased at renowned festivals like Fantasia, Shanghai, Berlin, and Comic-Con. Geordie’s projects have garnered critical acclaim and made money at the same time – to his wife’s surprise. His work is available worldwide, including Amazon, Tubi, PBS, Marquee, Crave and Gem. David Cronenberg stepped out of the director’s chair to act in one of his short films. He wanted the chair back but was super polite about it.
Geordie began his career at the BBC, answering a vague posting for the BBC World Service in Afghanistan. At Discovery, he learnt the art of the cliffhanger from the creator of Shark Week, and further refined it by acting out his scripts at the Fire Hall.
Ages 18-24 enjoy 50% off admission until September 7, 2026 through the Canada Strong Pass supported by the Government of Canada. Youth under 18 always get in for free. Learn more
