During my visit to Iran in 2014, I had the pleasure of meeting some truly wonderful and hospitable people in that stunning country. Through conversations with many young, educated individuals, both boys, and girls, it became clear that they shared a desire for progress and freedom, rather than oppression and regression.
This artwork is inspired by the brave struggle of Iranian women facing subjugation from extremists seeking to dominate and control them. Yet, they dare to dream of a bright future where they spread their wings wide in the open sky.
To the courageous women who persevere daily to surmount their limitations and envision a future of liberty and fairness.
[Wings of Freedom]
From sheets of darkness on my face,
I see the sky, a boundless space,
And in its depths, I glimpse my dream,
A world of possibility, it seems.
I take a breath, and make a vow,
To spread my wings, and soar somehow,
For though I'm hurt, I'm not afraid,
My dream of freedom won't be swayed.
With closed eyes and a burning heart,
I take a vow that I'll depart,
From all the doubts and fears that bind,
And let my dreams take flight, unconfined.
Though obstacles may come my way,
I'll keep on soaring, come what may,
For every tear that falls from me,
Strengthens my resolve to be free.
So let them try to bring me down,
I'll rise again, I won't be bound,
For in the wings of freedom, I find,
Courage that cannot be confined.
And as I take to the open sky,
I know my dream will never die,
For with each beat of my soaring heart,
I vow never to let it fall apart.
