Sulaimani artist Chawan Rahim presents a striking new exhibition, featuring 21 large oil paintings. The works explore psychological defense mechanisms, blending personal experiences with reflections on society. Each painting invites visitors to examine the inner shields people use to navigate emotions and relationships.
The gallery has been transformed into an immersive space. The canvases, each two and a half meters tall and over one meter wide, form a circular arrangement. This setup surrounds viewers and encourages them to engage deeply with the art. The circular layout represents the continuous dialogue between the inner self and the external world.
Each painting divides into two sections: inner and outer. The inner part reflects private emotions, while the outer shows the persona presented to society. This duality mirrors the central theme of the exhibition—the tension between internal feelings and outward behavior.
Chawan Rahim graduated from the College of Fine Arts at Sulaimani University. She discovered her artistic path during her studies and credits her professors for guiding her exploration. She experimented with different methods to find a style that communicates both personal insights and societal concerns.
Expressionism forms the core of her artistic language. This style, called derbrînxwazî in Kurdish, emphasizes raw emotion over objective reality. It allows Chawan to render abstract psychological concepts visible, giving viewers a window into the subconscious mind.
The exhibition focuses on defense mechanisms, behaviors people adopt to protect themselves from fear, anxiety, and internal conflict. Chawan’s brushwork turns these invisible struggles into tangible forms, inviting reflection on the human condition.
Visitors encounter an artistic journey that blends technical skill with profound psychological inquiry. Chawan Rahim has moved from learning the craft to expressing deep personal and societal insights. Her work challenges viewers to look beyond appearances and consider the inner workings of their own minds.