(Recap from July 2023)
In July 2023, Trinity Square Video was transformed into something far beyond a traditional gallery space. The Space in Between, a poignant exhibition by multisensory artist Salima Punjani, invited visitors to step into an environment that reimagined what an art space could be—a place not just to observe but to feel, connect, and participate.
Running from July 21 to 23, with thoughtfully curated receptions spread across three days, the exhibition welcomed the public into what felt more like an intimate living room than a conventional gallery. Soft furnishings and cozy arrangements replaced stark white walls and rigid displays, creating a sanctuary for reflection, conversation, and sensory exploration.
Punjani, grounded in relational aesthetics, spent the preceding month in residence at Trinity Square Video, curating a series of informal gatherings with approximately 30 artists from Toronto’s Mad, Deaf, and Disability arts communities. These gatherings, centered around shared meals and authentic dialogue, were audio recorded and later transformed into a multisensory listening experience using vibrotactile technology. Visitors were not just passive observers; they were invited to ‘vibe out,’ experiencing sound not only through their ears but through their bodies, blurring the lines between listening and feeling.
The Space in Between was more than an exhibition—it was a participatory, relational art project that celebrated softness, slowness, and the unspectacular moments that often hold the deepest connections. The project created an intentional space for Mad, Deaf, and Disabled artists to gather without the pressure of performance or expectation, fostering a sense of community rooted in care, presence, and mutual respect.
Accessibility was woven seamlessly into the fabric of the exhibition. ASL interpretation, an active listener, and a sensory care station were available, alongside a detailed Access Guide, reflecting Punjani’s commitment to creating environments where everyone could feel welcomed and engaged.
Salima Punjani’s work continually challenges the boundaries of how art is experienced. Her focus on multisensory engagement, anti-urgency, and the aesthetics of care offers a profound reflection on connection in all its forms. The Space in Between wasn’t just an exhibition you visited; it was an experience you carried with you—a gentle reminder of the beauty found in the quiet spaces where community and art intertwine.
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