Loan Program / Exhibition

Syrian Symphony: New Compositions in Sight and Sound

Aga Khan Museum

Toronto - Canada

May 20 – August 13, 2017

Similar to a musical symphony, the exhibition is divided into four distinct yet connected “movements”  composed of various media — including Ahmad Moualla’s monumental painting “People and Power” (2011). Photo by Scott Norsworthy

Malek Jandali’s adaptation of “Hurrian Hymn no. 6,” the oldest known written piece of music, provides the musical backdrop to the second movement of Syrian Symphony, which also features the works of Ali Mukawwas and Ahmad Moualla. Photo by Scott Norsworthy

The exhibition includes a spectacular series of paintings created directly on the walls of the gallery by visual artist Kevork Mourad. The paintings are part of “Layers We Are,” which also features the music of Damascus-born clarinettist Kinan Azmeh. Photo by Scott Norsworthy

Press Release

About the Project

Syrian Symphony orchestrates music, painting, and media arts by some of Syria’s leading artists and musicians. Along with contributions from other organizations such as Iconem, Atassi Foundation, COSTI, and Silkroad, this exhibition explores the roles of art and artists during times of upheaval and conflict.

True to its name and similar to a musical symphony, the exhibition is divided into four distinct yet connected “movements” composed of various media including site-specific paintings on gallery walls, original musical pieces recorded at the Museum, and interactive installations that allow visitors to show their support for Syrians.

Together, the creative voices of such artists as Kinan Azmeh, Kevork Mourad, Ahmad Moualla, and Malek Jandali speak of the struggle to protect the region’s cultural heritage, and of the determination to rebuild.