Daneha

Overview

The experiences of Afghan and Persian migrants are central to Blacktown Arts Centre's new program Daneha. Launched in early July, this epic project includes art, talks, live music, theatre and interactive adventures.

At the program's heart is a major exhibition featuring new works by Avan Anwar (Melbourne), Elyas Alavi (Adelaide), Zainab Haidariy (Germany), Gerrie Mifsud (Sydney) and Blacktown's own Khadim Ali, winner of the NSW Government's 2016 Western Sydney Arts Fellowship.

In addition, local group Afghan Women on the Move will present a series created in community workshops led by Maryam Zahid. "Afghan Women on the Move creates a radically safe platform for women as survivors of war and trauma, to gather and participate in arts and cultural programs, outside of religious and political influences," says Zahid.

To deepen your knowledge of the artworks, get along to the artist talks, happening on Saturday, August 18 and Saturday, September 1 from 4–6.30pm. Entry is free, but online registration is essential.

Finally, rounding out the program is the Australian premiere of Sitaraha – The Stars, a one-woman play covering the stories of three generations of Afghan women, taking place Thursday, September 6 and Saturday, September 8 at 7.30pm; and Sunday, September 9 at 3pm. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased here.

Images: Sharon Hickey.