The Kurdistan Regional Government Representation in the United States (KRG-US) was pleased to attend a full-house event at Mason Exhibitions Arlington for “Kî me Ez? – Who Am I?”, an interdisciplinary discussion and art exhibition exploring Kurdish history, identity, and creativity in diaspora.
Moderated by Holly Mason Badra, the discussion featured Kurdish scholars who shared insights from their research across sociology, political science, and cultural studies. Drawing from their diverse fields, the scholars connected their academic work to the art displayed throughout the gallery—highlighting how Kurdish identity continues to evolve through expression, exile, and endurance.
Exploring Identity Through Art
The event was part of the Kî me Ez? – Who Am I? exhibition, held from September 5 – October 25, 2025, at Mason Exhibitions Arlington. The exhibition examined the enduring question posed in the poem Kî me Ez (“Who Am I?”) by the renowned Kurdish poet Cegerxwîn, who wrote:
“I am a proud Kurd,
enemy to the enemy,
a friend to the peace-seekers.”
Rooted in this declaration of dignity and resistance, the exhibition invited viewers to look beyond monolithic depictions of Kurdish identity. The curatorial narrative traced the lived realities of Kurds—shaped by colonization, statelessness, and resilience—while celebrating the diversity of Kurdish voices across regions and generations.
A Kaleidoscope of Kurdish Experience
Kî me Ez? showcased contemporary Kurdish artists whose works merge traditional heritage with modern forms of expression. Through painting, sculpture, textiles, photography, and multimedia installations, the exhibition explored themes of displacement, survival, cultural memory, and belonging.
Participating artists included Pedram Baldari, Sener Ozmen, Sahar Tarighi, Beizar Aradini, Huner Emin, and Nuveen Barwari—each offering a distinct reflection on Kurdish life and identity:
Art as Resistance and Continuity
The exhibition situated Kurdish creativity within a broader historical and geopolitical context—one marked by displacement, linguistic suppression, and cultural perseverance. The curators emphasized that Kurdish identity is “built upon the rubble, yes, but also within abundance,” reflecting both loss and flourishing innovation.
Through these works, Kî me Ez? urged audiences not only to ask, “Who are the Kurds?” but also to reflect inwardly: “Who am I?”
Cultural Dialogue and Representation
The event reinforced the vital role of cultural diplomacy in deepening greater understanding of Kurdish experiences. The Representation commends Mason Exhibitions Arlington, the participating scholars, and the exhibiting artists for their role in preserving and promoting Kurdish culture through art, scholarship, and dialogue.
Photo Credit: Ayman Rashid
