The mediaeval Castello Scaligero in Malcesine, Verona, is hosting an art exhibit by Iranian artist Bahar Heidarzade, titled “Le mie pietre sono aquiloni” (my stones are kites). This exhibit, officially inaugurated on August 2, explores themes of memory, pain, and the resilience of women, aiming to raise awareness about gender violence.
An artist’s journey and message
Bahar Heidarzade, born in Tehran in 1981, was forced to flee her country to escape oppressive constraints. Her work reflects the heavy burden of memories and the transformative power of shared experiences. The exhibition includes symbolic representations of these burdens, using stones created from newspaper clippings of disturbing news events. These stones, representing the collective weight of social and personal traumas, are transformed into kites, symbolising hope and the lifting of the human spirit.
Performance and installation
The exhibit’s inauguration featured a live performance through Malcesine’s streets, echoing Heidarzade’s previous performance, “Stone XXL.” Participants passed large papier-mâché stones hand in hand, symbolising the collective effort needed to overcome the weight of painful memories. This act of solidarity underscores the exhibit’s central message: together, we can transform burdens into symbols of hope.
A highlight of the exhibit is the immersive installation in the Sala Labia of the Castello Scaligero. A video projection shows Heidarzade lying crushed by a massive stone, with suspended stones symbolising the mental weight of violence and trauma. The installation powerfully conveys the artist’s message about the ongoing struggles of women against violence and the importance of collective empathy and action.
Practical information
The exhibit is supported by the Fondazione Puzzilli in collaboration with Progetto Agata, both of which work to support women who have suffered from violence. The exhibition will be open to the public until November 3rd, offering a unique opportunity to engage with powerful art that seeks to inspire change.
The Castello Scaligero is open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM until September 30th, and from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM from October 1st to November 3rd. Ticket prices are €6.00 for adults, €5.00 for reduced tickets, €3.00 for children aged 6-13, and free for children under 5.
