Farhad Bandesh

I worked as a guitar maker prior to seeking asylum from Australia in 2013. I was imprisoned in the Australian offshore detention centre prison camp for refugees on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea, and then in Melbourne for nearly 8 years.

My work is multidisciplinary including painting, working with stones and gems, drawing and now graphic art. I am a musician, singer and poet. I am Kurdish, from Ilam.

Kurdish people have suffered greatly through genocide, displacement, and persecution. They still struggle today for independence, for country and freedom. They are not permitted to speak their own language, are stateless and cannot practice culture, music, art or dance I have created many songs and artworks whilst imprisoned, it has helped keep me alive. When I create something, when I make it, it means I am not forgotten.


Proudly supporting local artists and our art community
OPENING TIMES:

TUES – FRI 10am - 5pm, SAT 10am - 3pm

ArtSpace @ Space2b Social Design,
144 Chapel St, Balaclava
artspace@space2b.com.au