Dreams Before Extinction, 2009-2012 — Naeemeh Naeemaei
They say that he is the very last one! The Siberian Crane is a traveler from Russia who 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 wife. Acrylic on canvas, 170 x 180 cm. 2009. Private collection Some of those who saw my painting wondered why I had wrapped a wild animal in a chador, an important religious symbol. But, you know, it’s not that simple for me. The real title of the painting is “Me, Mom, Aunt.” The little girl laughing at you is me. My aunt, with the cheetah’s head, shelters me under her colorful chador. My mother is standing on the other side, wea