Marie Khouri

The first event of 2024 will feature renowned sculptor Marie Khouri who will share her incredible personal story of creativity through the lens of the global theme RISE.

Born in Egypt and raised in Lebanon, Marie Khouri relays messages of movement, community, and connection through her artworks. As an immigrant spending time across Europe before truly settling in Canada, Khouri’s work speaks to a unified and diverse audience, creating sculptures that unify communities. With her works rooted in a profound sense of dislocation and the search for a greater sense of place, her sculptures are formed through extensive hands-on process that employs traditional sculpting techniques alongside contemporary innovations in material and building standards. Khouri was just honoured as the Award of Distinction in the 2023 Applied Art + Design Awards by BC Achievement Foundation.

Every month we ask our speaker a handful of probing questions to give us a deeper glimpse into their life and relationship with creativity:

How do you define creativity and apply it in your life and career?

When asked about how I define creativity and apply it in my life and career, I express that for me, creativity is not just a sporadic occurrence but an everyday phenomenon. It permeates various aspects of my life, from the way I dress and cook to my behavior and work. I draw inspiration from everyday things, whether it be an image, a reading, or a simple walk, emphasizing the importance of finding creativity in the ordinary.

Where do you find your best creative inspiration or energy?

Reflecting on where I find my best creative inspiration or energy, I stress that inspiration often stems from everyday experiences, such as images, readings, or walks—especially those by the sea. I emphasize the significance of not merely looking at things but truly seeing them, delving beneath the surface. Ultimately, I highlight the pivotal moment when I can apply this creative inspiration in the studio, manifesting it into the everyday things I create.

What’s one piece of creative advice or a tip you wish you’d known as a young
person?

In response to the question about creative advice for young individuals, I suggest embracing every moment and experience, emphasizing that tips and advice are valuable additions to one's creative journey. Stressing the importance of taking life one step at a time.

Who (living or dead) would you most enjoy hearing speak at CreativeMornings?

When asked about the dream speaker at CreativeMornings, I express a desire to hear Louise Bourgeois, citing her groundbreaking contributions to sculpture and feminist art during her time. I appreciate her ability to break the mold, highlighting her role as an abstract expressionist in feminist art.

What did you learn from your most memorable creative failure?

Answering the question about the most memorable creative failure, I share the lesson learned—that accidents can lead to creative successes. I draw a parallel to Bob Ross's philosophy that there are no creative mistakes, only happy accidents. I emphasize the iterative nature of art, where mistakes can often pave the way for unique and creative outcomes.

What fact about you would surprise people?

Regarding a surprising fact about myself, I reveal that I speak five languages, worked as an interpreter before becoming an artist, and even had a background in finance. This unexpected facet adds depth to my identity beyond the realm of art.

How does your life and career compare to what you envisioned for your future as a sixth grader?

When asked to compare my life and career to the visions I had as a sixth grader, I explain that, due to existing in a difficult reality during a civil war in my home country, I was incapable of dreaming at that age. This experience shaped my perspective on life and dreams.

How would you describe what you do in a single sentence to a stranger?

"I play with clay," encapsulating the essence of my artistic endeavors.

If you could open a door and go anywhere, where would that be?

In response to the hypothetical scenario of opening a door and going anywhere, I express a desire to be in my home, Paris, France..

What keeps you awake at night?

Delving into what keeps me awake at night, I humorously attribute it to my "creative juices," emphasizing the constant flow of ideas and inspiration that fuels my artistic endeavors.

What are you proudest of in your life?

When asked about what I am proudest of in my life, I unequivocally cite my children as my greatest source of pride, followed by my achievements in public art.

What has been one of your biggest Aha! moments in life?

Recalling one of my biggest "Aha!" moments in life, I share the profound experience of witnessing the installation of my first public art piece—VANTAGE—a moment that solidified the impact of my creative contributions.