This piece is inspired by the Birth of Venus. It is a monumental story in the artist’s life as he perceives its message to be a reminder when he is coping with anxiety and depression. Although some things in life may seem to be going negatively, there is always a blessing in disguise. Venus is the blessing that was birthed by a tragic event. Similar to the story, Rei perceives negative emotions as roots that are needed in order for the branches of happiness to flourish.
Rei Misri is a Toronto-based artist who emigrated from Tirana, Albania. During his earlier years of cultural adaptation, Rei found urban arts as a way to express his voice. His dynamic clash of traditional calligraphy and contemporary street art has been featured by organizations including the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, Toronto Raptors, Red Bull, and Nissan. Most recently, Rei became a Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series regional winner and exhibited his work at Art Basel Miami as well as the Versace Mansion.