The piece explores the feeling of existing between two cultures — a space that is both nostalgic and unfamiliar.

This liminal, or "in-between," space is central to the artist’s concept. Drawing from his Punjabi heritage, Johal abstracted traditional elements and merged them with a contemporary structural form to evoke the emotional complexity of navigating multiple cultural identities. The result is a design that feels rooted and shifting at once — much like the immigrant journey itself.

By integrating function with form, The In-between also invites participation: bicycles lock directly into the structure, becoming part of the artwork. In this way, the piece is not only a sculptural reflection of cultural hybridity but also a living, everyday object embedded in community life.

Vikram Johal has a diverse background in creating through different mediums including video production, sound engineering, fashion, and graphic design. His focus is predominantly on experiential design using the combination of these mediums.

Vikram holds a Masters in Architecture from the School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape and an undergraduate degree in Biomechanics from the University of Calgary. Vikram’s passions include Muay Thai in which he has trained since the age of 11 and has competed in both locally and internationally.

"Being born and raised here in NE Calgary, my connection to this part of this city runs deep. I have always been a creative that looks for different ways to connect emotionally as humans through art and expression. I am beyond excited for the opportunity to use my knowledge and experience in architecture and design to help tell the stories of our communities in an authentic way."

See more of Vikram's work