The Ethnic Identity series explores the complexities of ethnic identity and the struggles of immigrants navigating a sense of belonging. It aims to illustrate the unique challenges of the “immigrant identity crisis.” To convey this complexity, I use bright colors, transparent watercolor, and oil to create a sense of fluidity.

There is both gravity and repression in the faces of my figures, yet I strive to make them convincing—embodying tenacity and an unwavering resolve. Many ethnic groups share histories of displacement, resilience, and the fight for recognition. Their stories, shaped by centuries of migration, cultural preservation, and struggle, are woven into this series,

One such story is that of the Kurds, an indigenous people of the Middle East with a history dating back to the 3rd millennium B.C. Like many other ethnic communities, they have maintained a distinct culture, language, and traditions despite ongoing challenges. Notably, Kurdish society has long recognized the significant role of women in governance and social affairs.
Throughout history, ethnic groups have faced varying degrees of persecution, forced assimilation, and displacement. Some, like the Kurds in Turkey, have endured state-driven oppression, while others have fought for self-determination across borders. Yet, even in the face of adversity, their resilience and cultural identity persist.
This series seeks to honor that resilience—the fluid yet enduring nature of identity, shaped by history yet ever evolving.