Page 38 - Dark Matter:Women Witnessing Issue #3 - December 2015
P. 38
SIBERIAN CRANE
Acrylic and oil on canvas, 2011, 152 x 210 cm
They say that he is the very last one! The Siberian Crane is a traveler from Russia that
comes to the coast of the Caspian Sea in Iran to spend the winter each year. His
Persian name is “Omid,” which means “hope.” The book I am holding over the crane’s
head is the Koran. Traditionally the Koran is held over the head of a person who is
leaving the house for a journey, to make sure s/he will return safely. I am using this
custom, which is common in Iran today, to ensure the crane will come back next fall. It
was the only thing I could do, as a mother, sister, or a wife, whichever you may.
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