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Woman’s Land
Woman’s Land
February 27, 2025
© Forough Alaei, Fishers
Presented as part of the European Month of Photography, Woman’s Land is a compelling dialogue of works by Forough Alaei and Kiana Hayeri. Both artists have been recognised within the Leica Oskar Barnack Award – Kiana Hayeri was the LOBA winner of 2022, while Forough Alaei was selected as a finalist for the 2024 edition – and use their work to make a powerful statement about resistance, identity, and the fight for self-determination.
Forough Alaei (b. 1989) has employed vibrant imagery to highlight acts of quiet rebellion and the transformative power of women in Iran. Since the violent death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, a new generation of Iranian women has raised its voice. In her series Underneath the Calm Streets of Iran, Alaei documents women who break free from societal constraints – be it as a dancer, a motorcycle racer or a car mechanic –and become inspiring role models for others. These seemingly small acts contribute to a broader movement and actively instigate social change.
Kiana Hayeri (b. 1988) has documented the realities of Afghan women before and after the Taliban’s return to power. Their outlook used to be one of freedom and hope; since the withdrawal of Western troops, however, their lives have been overshadowed by uncertainty and restrictions: women’s rights, freedom of expression and access to education were dismantled in a matter of days. Hayeri’s work goes beyond mere documentation – it is a profound testament to the dignity and strength of women who, despite ongoing conflict, continue to fight for self-determination.
With their work, both artists illustrate that photography is not only a means of forging connections, but can also serve as a tool of resistance. Through their juxtaposition, the showcased images reveal that the essence of human strength lies in the tension between fear and courage, despair and hope. Woman’s Land is ultimately a tribute to the unyielding power of female resistance.
For further information please visit Anahita Sadighi Gallery.
David RojkowskiForough Alaei (b. 1989) has employed vibrant imagery to highlight acts of quiet rebellion and the transformative power of women in Iran. Since the violent death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, a new generation of Iranian women has raised its voice. In her series Underneath the Calm Streets of Iran, Alaei documents women who break free from societal constraints – be it as a dancer, a motorcycle racer or a car mechanic –and become inspiring role models for others. These seemingly small acts contribute to a broader movement and actively instigate social change.
Kiana Hayeri (b. 1988) has documented the realities of Afghan women before and after the Taliban’s return to power. Their outlook used to be one of freedom and hope; since the withdrawal of Western troops, however, their lives have been overshadowed by uncertainty and restrictions: women’s rights, freedom of expression and access to education were dismantled in a matter of days. Hayeri’s work goes beyond mere documentation – it is a profound testament to the dignity and strength of women who, despite ongoing conflict, continue to fight for self-determination.
With their work, both artists illustrate that photography is not only a means of forging connections, but can also serve as a tool of resistance. Through their juxtaposition, the showcased images reveal that the essence of human strength lies in the tension between fear and courage, despair and hope. Woman’s Land is ultimately a tribute to the unyielding power of female resistance.
For further information please visit Anahita Sadighi Gallery.
© Forough Alaei, Fishers
© Forough Alaei, Iranian Role Model
© Forough Alaei, Silence of a Woman
© Forough Alaei, November 25
© Kiana Hayeri, Afghan Women
© Kiana Hayeri, Afghan Women
© Kiana Hayeri, Promises Written on the Ice, Left in the Sun
© Kiana Hayeri, Promises Written on the Ice, Left in the Sun