Threshold

SNAP is pleased to present Threshold. This exhibition is the culmination of works from this years Emerging Artists in Residence: Ambar Azcorra, Cynthia Schroter, Libbie Farrell, and Sam Schembri.

We have been so lucky to share space with these artists over the last year and watch each of them grow into their practice. The exhibition ahead is an exciting pairing of techniques, approaches, and ideas that have been thoughtfully explored and engaged with.

Opening Reception: August 31st, 7-9pm

Artist Bios

Ambar Azcorra is a multidisciplinary artist from Puerto Morelos, Mexico, currently based in Edmonton, Canada. She is a graduate student from the University of Alberta’s Bachelor of Fine Arts and Design programme. Through the practices of printmaking, photography, drawing, and ceramics, she explores the themes of identity, surrealism, consciousness, and the human experience. She works with personal and intimate themes from her experiences to create a dialogue between the viewers, the artist, and the art.

Cynthia Schroter is a 22-year-old artist and graphic designer. Born and located in Treaty Six territory, Amiskwaciwâskahikan/Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Cynthia recently graduated from the University of Alberta’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art and Design program. 

Cynthia’s research focuses on how the shift in space in environments can appear labyrinth-like, with unsettling and comforting qualities. Her subject matter is derived from her interest in imagined spaces and her desire to draw attention to parts of mental health not often discussed. Her creations are linked directly to her struggle with a disability, and because of that, she intends to create a safe and open environment for discussion.

Libbie Farrell (She/They) is an artist and maker from treaty six territory, living and working in Amiskwaciwâskahikan /ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ (Edmonton). Farrell graduated with a BFA from Mount Allison University in Sackville NB and was selected as one of SNAP’s Emerging Artists In residence for the 2023-24 season. Their practice spans printmaking, textiles and digital media with the three often intersecting with one another. Their work investigates gender, sexuality, folklore, and humor. Farrell hopes to one day be reincarnated as a giant green woman with a perfect pink manicure and a little dog. 

Sam Schembri: An overarching theme in my work is the exploration of identity through my lens as a queer artist, provoking ideas of gender performance, community, and creative expression.

My project is influenced by our local drag community whom I photographed and printed on a series of mirrors installed to imitate stained glass windows, places of worship, and queer spaces. My intent was to offer a ritual of devotion to our queer icons as if they were mythological gods.  

Understanding the creative and transformative purpose behind drag can offer an opportunity to uplift our community.

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.

#BringingTheArtsTolife