Hair as Freedom Series: Cut Plaits The Hair as Freedom series, Cut Plaits, is a deeply personal and heartfelt tribute to the Women, Life, Freedom movement that emerged in Iran in 2022. This movement, a pivotal moment in the fight for justice and equality, saw Iranian women bravely defy oppressive norms by removing their headscarves and cutting their hair—a poignant act of resistance that resonated deeply with me. Inspired by their extraordinary courage and unwavering determination, this three-piece ceramic series embodies the emotional and symbolic essence of their struggle. Each piece represents a stage in their collective journey:

1. Trapped – The plaited vase symbolizes the way Iranian women have been ensnared by societal traditions and expectations. The use of a traditional vase shape further emphasizes this entrapment, evoking the image of women confined within the boundaries of a prescribed role—valued for their utility and appearance but constrained from fully expressing their individuality and potential.

2. Breaking Free – This piece represents movement and transformation, symbolizing the act of reclaiming agency and breaking away from the chains of repression. After the Women, Life, Freedom movement, Iranian women found the courage to break free from their limitations and rebel against long-standing injustices, igniting a wave of change fueled by their collective defiance. One of the first emotions I personally experienced after removing my mandatory Hejab was the exhilarating sensation of wind blowing through my hair. This feeling of liberation inspired this concept, weaving it into the essence of this piece.

3. United – Showing unity in the form of a woman’s face, this piece celebrates collective strength and solidarity. It radiates hope for a future defined by freedom and equality, where women’s voices merge into a shared vision of empowerment and liberation. Through this series, I aim to honor the indomitable spirit of these women and their fight for gender equality, justice, and an end to violence. Cut Plaits serves as both a remembrance of their bravery and a call to solidarity, reminding us of the power of unity and the enduring hope for a brighter, freer future.