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News Release: April 16, 2019

Fashion and Diversity Converge in New Lifestyle Exhibition at Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA)

Brampton, ON (April 16, 2019): Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA) is excited to welcome Sikh, Australian fashion and lifestyle influencer Karan Kaur of @StyleWithKaur as we kick-off her new exhibition The Style of Life.  Meet her in-person at the free exhibition reception, this Saturday April 20 at 12:30 p.m.

Karan Kaur: The Style of Life
March 30 – June 9

Photo for use courtesy of Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives.

Fashion, as an art form, has traditionally been under-represented within the art gallery and museum world. Exhibitions by leading museums featuring the work of Yves Saint Laurent, Jean Paul Gaultier and Iris van Herpen, have shifted ideas about fashion and its relationship to art. Karan Kaur notes, "Fashion isn't just about looking pretty, it's about the freedom to express and the right to [your] own body. I want to show Sikh women it's okay to be stylish and fashionable while still being religious." Questioning Sikh traditions in relation to dress and lifestyle are at the core of this exhibition and exploring ways in which new ideas about fashion and living, as part of the Sikh community, are changing.

“Karan Kaur’s personal style of life is an inspiration to a global community,” notes PAMA senior curator of art Darrin Martens. “More than a brand, Kaur is an example to young entrepreneurs that one can follow their dreams and be a positive influence on the world. Kaur’s exhibition provides PAMA with a unique opportunity to showcase an emerging talent and contribute to Sikh Heritage Month celebrations within the Metro Toronto area.” PAMA Sr. Curator, Darrin Martens

“I was 16 years old when I started wearing a dastaar [turban]. It was honestly the best decision I could have ever made. My dastaar is something that is very sacred to me and defines who I am and what I stand for. For both men and women, the turban is more than a mere piece of cloth – it is one and the same with the wearer’s head. Turbans are worn by Sikhs to cover their long hair and with respect to God. It was designed so Sikhs could be recognized for years to come. The Sikh faith believes in freedom, equality and justice. The Sikh way of life reaches out to people in different faiths and racial backgrounds, encouraging the world to see beyond differences and to work together for peace and harmony.” Karan Kaur

Diversity & Fashion Q&A: Your Brand, Your Identity
Thursday, May 2

• Meet and greet with Karan: 6 – 7 p.m.
• Q&A with fashion & lifestyle bloggers: 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Join Karan Kaur for light refreshments and an opportunity talk with her one-on-one. Followed by a spirited conversation about how to balance your brand and cultural identity on social media with Karan and local guests: Jalen Nelson (@lickmyfashion), Liz Chow (@staygorgeouslc) and Sasha (@flawsofcouture).

Advanced registration required. This event is included in PAMA admission. Reserve your spot now.

PAMA is a place to explore and learn about Peel Region’s culture and heritage, as well as use conversation, questions and stories to help make new and fascinating connections to the surrounding community. Throughout the year, PAMA offers a variety of workshops and programs for all ages, families and adults. With so many different programs to choose from, PAMA has something for everyone. Operated by the Region of Peel, PAMA is located at 9 Wellington Street, East in Brampton. Visit pama.peelregion.ca to learn more.

Media Contacts

Erin Fernandes
Marketing Co-ordinator
Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives
905-791-4055, ext. 7596

Lisa Cox
Communications Specialist
Region of Peel
905-791-7800, ext. 4615