Women learn how to paint in Rojava

Women attending the Fine Art Institute in Rojava reveal their skills, reflecting nature and the hope of their people for freedom in their paintings.

EBÎR MUHEMED

Qamishlo- Before the revolution in Rojava, there were no schools and universities in the cities of North and East Syria, except in Cizîr and Hasakah. But after the revolution, the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) has opened many schools, institutes and universities. Two years ago, the Fine Art Institute was opened by the Rojava University in Qamishlo. Despite limited opportunities, women attending the lessons of the institute draw attention with their achievements in art.

‘The institute was opened despite difficulties’

Painting teacher Resmiya Bedran, who studied at the faculty of Fine Art of the Rojava University for four years, said, “The institute was opened two years ago despite difficulties. Since I love painting and being involved in art, I wanted to be a teacher of the institute. Now, there are 45 students in the first grade of the institute and 25 students in the second grade. When I see the paintings of the students, I am proud of them. “

‘Students have the spirit of unity’

Nexem Mihemed from Amûdê town of Qamishlo is in the second grade of the Fine Art Institute at the Rojava University.

“At first, I did not know how to paint but then I learned how to paint and developed my skills thanks to my teachers. I tend to paint in a realistic style as well as portraits. Women have strong feelings so they create effective paintings. Students at the institute have the spirit of unity, they always support each other. Each of the students has a style; they are special and have valuable skills.”

 ‘I fill the void inside of me with art’

Dêrsim Nûredîn has been interested in art since her childhood. Now, she is in the second grade of the institute. As she develops her skills in art, her interest in art increases.

“Every painter, of course, has a certain style. I focus on women and Kurdish folklore in my paintings. I fill the void inside of me with art. I want people to have a free life and I express the hope of people for freedom in my paintings. We also often paint nature.”