Freedom

Part of the three-piece Woman, Life, Freedom collection for International Women’s Day, this piece may stand on its own, or as part of trio. This piece shows a rise from darkness into the sun, which will shine positive light on all women’s situations. A hopeful recognition of progression, Freedom celebrates the hopefully not too distant future, where all women can be free. The blue bird in the painting is a recognised symbol of freedom. The hopeful look the woman gives it as she rises into the sunlight, out of the dark depths below, is inspiring and comforting. Freedom for all women. This painting is in honour of Sahar Khodayari, also known as the Blue Girl, who self-immolated in Tehran to protest the national laws banning women from attending sports events and entering stadiums since the Islamic Revolution. The blue bird in the painting is a symbol for her and her dream of liberation. While it may be unusual, I wanted to have this representation in my piece as in a lot of countries there are millions of women still fighting for their very basic human rights.