Emerging Artist
Dear Mona
12:00, single channel with sound.
20 October - 25 November 2018 | Heathcote Museum & Gallery is proud to present Heathcote Select 2018, an exhibition of Western Australian artists selected by curator Jana Braddock.
"... Her practice explores the Iranian diaspora, especially surrounding the 1979 Revolution, which brought about the displacement and persecution of her mother’s family from their homeland. Eshraghian dedicates Dear Mona to the memory of Mona Mahmudnizhad, a 17-year-old Bahá’í who was executed for her beliefs. Mona’s story reminds us of the important role understanding and empathy can play in empowering us to challenge the divisive ideologies of today’s world so that differences are embraced and diversity celebrated." - Heathcote Select Catalogue
"... and then mum decided that we need to, somehow, escape without them finding out. “We must all leave the house tonight, but we can’t go altogether as it will raise suspicion.” I said, “Mum I’m very scared.” She said to me, “Don’t worry love, nothing will happen, God is with you. Go.” I put on the chador and slowly opened the door and came out of the house. I looked around. There was no one around. Even though the street lights were on, it felt so dark and it was a long way to walk. The shadow of the maple leaves frightened me …" - Transcript from Dear Mona
"Elham Eshraghian's video work Dear Mona is a topical work addressing the Iranian diaspora and displacement, thoughtfully and skilfully." - Agendo Art Award Judges, finalist, 2019.
Dear Mona II
4:00 minutes, single channel with sound. Undercurrent Exhibition, Fremantle Moores Gallery, 2018.
Exhibitions include Agendo Emerging Art Exhibition [Finalist], Potlock C3 Contemporary Art Gallery 2019, Undercurrent Fremantle Arts Centre 2018, Camberwell Art Gallery 2018 and Heathcote Gallery Emerging WA Artist Exhibition 2018.