Pomegranate

The pomegranate blossom is the official flower of Libya, and that's why I chose it for WRAPP.
 
Beyond that: in Turkey, I was blessed to meet a man whose family farms this fruit as they wish the best for their country, simultaneously a haven for refugees and a conflict zone. I drank the juice with teachers from Iraq and Lebanon -- many of whom were displaced -- who were training to teach their students and colleagues the human right to freedom of religion or belief, with the long-range goal of ending oppression.
 
And much closer than that: recently celebrating the arrival of newcomers to Canada from Syria, Mexico, Eritrea and the Ukraine, one sweet boy grabbed a decorative fruit from the banquet table to play football with. He has been here less than six months.
 
These memories become prayers for humankind as they take shape upon my canvas.
 
Proceeds from "Pomegranate" will benefit my dear friends at the Multicultural Association of Perth-Huron.