Artist of the Month: October 2025
Writer
Based in Edmonton, Alberta
Artist Bio
Arsh Kaur is a writer based in Edmonton. She crafts poetry, essays, and stories that invite reflection and stir emotion. Her work delves into human nature and philosophy, often exploring themes of ego, self, and love. Through her writing, she hopes to spark deeper conversations and help readers connect with themselves and others.
Your journey from Punjab to Edmonton has been central to your growth as both a person and a writer. How has this transition shaped your identity and voice?
One great virtue that I got from my Punjabi culture is bravery and resiliency. Edmonton has given me space to find a new identity - to experiment, to make mistakes. Studying at University of Alberta, gaining all sorts of knowledge has given shy Arsh a voice - to stand up for herself and the truth.
Punjab has given me a family who have gifted me with a childhood full of freedom, creativity and love. Whereas, the city of Edmonton has brought unexpected friends who have become my family and the love of my life - my husband, Anshuman Gill.
The prairies have given me space to express my thoughts without the fear of judgment which has helped me find my authentic voice.
Nature often appears as a source of inspiration in your work. You’ve said, “Whenever I cannot find headspace to write – the river valley, the North Saskatchewan River and the birds outside my balcony lend me their creativity.” Could you share a piece of your writing that was directly inspired by nature?
This article on substack “The Girl and The Air” is an intimate conversation between the girl in the blue chair and the very air she breathes. In this piece the air becomes more than just a backdrop - it is an active, listening participant, offering wisdom, warmth and love. Through this dialogue, I explore the themes of longing, friendship and relationship between ourselves and the world around us.
As an immigrant artist, imposter syndrome and other challenges can weigh heavily. What obstacles have you faced, and how have mentorship and community helped you overcome them?
One of the obstacles that I have faced and still sometimes face is the doubt - if my words will resonate with anybody. The feelings of being alone and not belonging often come up from time to time. However, publishing on substack has made me feel seen. When I share my shadow or low moments - every time someone writes me a long email about how my words made them feel seen. And I love substack community for that.
Another obstacle for me is getting lost in comparison and weighing my worth in numbers. I have to constantly remind myself - even if my words bring peace, a sense of belonging or a fresh perspective to one person - it is all worth it.
Your upcoming poetry book, The Summer I Found My Wings, marks a milestone in your career. What themes and emotions do you hope readers will carry away from its pages?
“The Summer I Found my Wings” is a journey of change. I have always been fascinated by transformation process - the dams, the windmills, the solar panels. In this book, through poetry, I attempt to record a spiritual transformation. A journey of a self rooted in fear to the self rooted in love.
The readers will find emotions of guilt and fear puzzling the ego searching for hope in the first section - Spring. The second part, Summer, is full of wisdom shared by the soul. I like to call this part pep talks from the soul. The third section, Fall, is the most inspired by nature. It carries the emotions of surrender, trust and love.
I hope that this book will bring hope, inspiration and a sense of belonging to the readers.
Among the poems, essays, or stories you have written, is there one that you consider a favourite or that you would especially like to share with readers? What makes it meaningful to you?
One of my favourite poem that I have written is ‘Admiring Existence’. This poem is a reminder that the simple act of admiration can be a reason to live life.
Last year, there were many times that I had to search for a reason to live. This poem is a reminder - if those times ever come back - I won’t have to look far or discover a new reason. This poem will point out that I have in the past and I can in the future as well - simple live to admire.
Admiring Existence
“The rain drops linger in the air
cling to the budding flowers,
clutch the cold-hearted asphalt.
They don’t want to say good bye
to the prestigious lamp posts
smell of the wet soil
and the girl writing in the balcony.
They love solely for the admiration.
Pour their hearts out
for the wise winds.
Shine brightly
for the traffic lights.
They cannot have enough.
They do not want to have enough.
Who wants to have enough?
I
want to have enough.
I have enough.
Then what are you existing for?
What are you living for?
For
the simple pleasure of admiration.
I am the admirer
of the raindrops
of the winds
the grey clouds
the blue skies.
Naked trees.
Greenest leaves.
Young flowers.
Plain old rain showers.
I admire,
I live to admire.
The reflections.
The nostalgia.
The freedom. ”