Join us on October 17, 6-8pm for an Interdisciplinary Discussion about Kurdish history and identity.
In this interdisciplinary talk, three Kurdish PhD Scholars across Mason will talk about their research, making connections to the artwork in this show. Join moderator Holly Mason Badra and panelists Arash Saleh, Golzar Salih, and Omer Pacal for a chance to think more about Kurdish experiences across disciplines.
Questions should be directed to Alissa Maru (amaru@gmu.edu)
Kî me Ez? - Who Am I?
Contemporary Kurdish Art in Diaspora
September 5 - October 25, 2025
Mason Exhibitions Arlington
The Kurdish experience is often marked by oppressive measures like militarized displacement, linguicide, genocide, gender-based violence, imprisonment by the state for cultural and artistic expression, and exiled artists, writers, and activists. Kurdish identity is built upon the rubble, yes, but also within abundance, too. Within this kaleidoscopic reality, Kî me Ez asks our Kurdish artists to take on this existential question: Who Am I?
The collection’s theme grows out of the poem “Kî me Ez” by Cegerxwin, which contemplates Kurdish identity. Moving beyond stereotypical ideas and monolithic understandings, Kî me Ez seeks to offer a depiction of the multifaceted experiences and narratives that exemplify Kurdish existence.
Golzar Salih is a PhD student in Sociology, with a concentration in globalization. Her research critically explores the intersections of gender justice and human rights, with a particular focus on the lived experiences of war, trauma, sexual violence, enslavement, and displacement among women in Kurdistan and the Yazidi community. Drawing on feminist and postcolonial theory, Golzar’s work examines the impacts of global power structures on marginalized populations. She is deeply committed to advancing scholarship that bridges academic research with social justice and community engagement.
Arash Saleh is a Ph.D. student in Political Science at George Mason University, specializing in Comparative Politics with a focus on authoritarian durability. His research explores the resilience and adaptability of authoritarian regimes in the face of political, economic, and societal pressures. Originally from Iran, Arash earned his Bachelor’s degree in Law before pursuing advanced studies in the United States. At George Mason, he has served as a Teaching Assistant for the past two semesters, contributing to undergraduate learning while deepening his expertise in political science.
Omer Pacal is getting his Ph.D. in Sociology at George Mason University where he holds a position as a Graduate Research Assistant. He holds an MA in Cultural Studies from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. His areas of interest are Market formation, Peasants and Politics, State and Violence, and Political Movements in the Middle East.