Forced to Flee Two Homes, a Painter Finds a Refuge on Canvas

Hayv Kahraman, an Iraqi-born artist, explores the theme of displacement in her New York exhibition "Ghost Fires." The exhibition reflects her personal experiences of being forced to flee her homes in Baghdad and Altadena. Kahraman's artworks, which include paintings and drawings, delve into the emotional and psychological impact of being uprooted from one's place of origin. The artist's works often feature female figures, which serve as metaphors for the resilience and adaptability required in the face of upheaval. Through her art, Kahraman aims to shed light on the universal human experience of displacement, which she has faced firsthand. The exhibition provides a platform for the artist to process her own trauma and share her unique perspective with the audience. Overall, "Ghost Fires" is a poignant exploration of the complex emotions and challenges associated with the experience of being displaced, as seen through the lens of Hayv Kahraman's artistic practice.