Oppression to Empowerment Art Show, Toronto, Canada

Hosted by Canadian Cultural Society of the Deaf, May 2025.
DEAF CULTURE CENTRE hosted an art exhibition at the gallery, titled “Oppression to Empowerment,” which features Nancy Rourke’s powerful De’VIA* artwork. Here is a summary about the exhibition in Nancy’s own words:

“As a Deaf artist, I challenge historical misconceptions through my paintings, depicting both the oppression we face and the celebration of our culture. Using primary colors—red for empowerment, yellow for hope, light blue for Deaf identity, and dark blue for audism—I convey powerful messages. My work focuses on social justice, activism, and Deaf solidarity, reflecting my unique style known as ‘Rourkeism’.” Exhibition happened in May 2025. Photo credited and watermarked by Canadian Cultural Society of the Deaf.