This was an exhibition for Kaiwan Shaban organized by Kurdistan Center for Arts and Culture in Akre – 2024
Curator’s Note
Among the mountains of Kurdistan lies Akre, a town that has remained continuously inhabited for more than 2,500 years. Many draw a connection between the name of the town and the Kurdish word for fire, because in the blue haze of the mountains, a fire of eternal celebration for Newroz burns. Kaiwan Shaban’s artwork shines through the mist of this atmosphere as a beacon representing creativity despite the odds to a global audience. In Blue Orange, Kaiwan’s vision returns to the town where that flame was ignited in him, displaying his creations on the backdrop that inspired the first steps of his journey.
Displaying these pieces in a digital medium clashes with the rugged walls of the Qishla of Akre. But in Blue Orange, contrasts are celebrated as the pixels of the screens illuminate architecture of years past. This fortress served as a center of command and control for over two centuries by successive governments — Ottoman, British, Iraqi — but now, the once-desolate building comes to life with Kurdish art. Here, history comes together with Kaiwan’s pieces, displayed on digital screens. It is a recollection of the past and a vision of the future united in the present. The installation of these artworks immerses the audience in Kaiwan’s world, and enhances the experience in a way that would not be possible in the virtual realm of the internet.
The solemn beauty of Kurdistan’s towns, villages, and nature has inspired local artists for generations. However, art galleries are often reserved for the cities of the region. With Blue Orange, art is shown close to the heart of the area that breathed life into it, making it accessible for new audiences and opening new discussions. Countless young people, both in Kurdistan and beyond, have learned artistic skills from Kaiwan’s tutorials and gained inspiration from his successes. This exhibition is dedicated to them — the youth who will lead tomorrow are worth celebrating as much as Kurdish heritage is.
