Art as the Language of Unity; Ashura as the Bond of Hearts

Farhadi, a Sunni Muslim from Kurdistan, emphasized: “Ashura belongs to all those who seek truth, dignity, and freedom. As a Sunni, I see Ashura not merely as a historical event, but as a universal ethical movement that brings hearts closer together, regardless of religious affiliation.”
The exhibition, held at the Bashmaq border during the Arbaeen pilgrimage, coincided with the active presence of service tents (mawakeb) assisting pilgrims.
Farhadi noted: “Art is the unspoken language of the heart. As pilgrims cross the border, they encounter images of Ashura that touch not only their eyes but their souls. This exhibition is a bridge between narrative and experience, between past and present. While mawakeb offer bread and water, art offers meaning and thought. Both are acts of service; both are expressions of love.”
Commenting on the role of art in fostering unity within the Islamic world, Farhadi added:
“Art knows no borders. Imagery, poetry, music, and storytelling can unite hearts that may not share a common language or sect. Ashura is a point where Shia and Sunni, Arab and non-Arab, Persian and Kurdish, all speak the same language: the language of freedom. I believe Ashura-inspired art can serve as a platform for dialogue, empathy, and rebuilding the bonds of the Muslim Ummah.”
In closing, Farhadi addressed artists and cultural activists: “Take art seriously. In a world increasingly torn by violence and division, the artist must be a messenger of peace and unity. Tell the story of Ashura—not only with tears, but with thought, beauty, and hope. The lesson of Ashura is one of humanity and freedom, and it must be conveyed through art, the most universal and impactful language we have.”
It is worth noting that the Islamic Arts Center of Kurdistan Province, in collaboration with the Provincial Office of Islamic Propagation, organized the “Ashura’s Radiant Frame” photo exhibition at the Bashmaq border crossing. Featuring 42 selected works from the Ashura-themed photo festival, the exhibition was held alongside the distribution of books and cultural packages at mawakeb and received significant attention from pilgrims and travelers at the border.