Sparks in the Dark Opening Night

Sparks in the Dark combines Afghan women’s embroidered artworks with new works by Mursal Azizi and Kat Rae, emerging Australian artists also touched by the ongoing effects of the Afghanistan war.

Embodying resilience, creativity and humanity in the face of adversity, the installation and public program will be a powerful fusion of traditional and contemporary art; representing Afghan women’s struggles, resistance and hope for a better future.

Held on the anniversary of four years (208 weeks) since the Taliban started working to erase women from Afghan society, this exhibition defiantly showcases 208 pieces of embroidered handkerchiefs from Afghan women. It shares their message to the world: they refuse to be silenced.

Doors at 5.30pm with delicious Afghan food, saffron tea, and a voluntary embroidery activity with local expert Shokira Jan.

Speeches and Afghan music from 6.15pm

Next Wave
270 Sydney Road, Bullek-bek (Brunswick)

Exhibition also open 17–24 August, 11am–4pm

Accessibility
Brunswick Mechanics Institute is a step-free venue with accessible bathrooms. 

Video tour of Brunswick Mechanics Institute

Download the Brunswick Mechanics Institute visual story (.docx) 
Download the Brunswick Mechanics Institute visual story (.pdf)

Download the Brunswick Mechanics Institute transport and parking information (.docx)
Download the Brunswick Mechanics Institute transport and parking information (.pdf)

Sparks in the Dark is presented by Mursal Azizi and Kat Rae in collaboration with Next Wave.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, as well as through the Wayward Women Giving Fund, Australian National Veterans Art Museum and the Australian War Memorial.