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SNAKES & LADDERS: Fa Rezavi

Holborn

7th - 22nd March 2024

Rezavi draws on her experiences growing up in a devoutly religious household, living in Iran and subsequently relocating amidst safety concerns, which brought her to the United Kingdom. Her work reflects her experiences both as a woman from the Islamic Republic of Iran, and an immigrant in London, and aims to spotlight the resilient spirit of the women and youth in Iran who continue to risk their lives to challenge the oppressive regime.

Rezavi employs the classic board-game of Snakes and Ladders to create parallels between the structure of the game and that of the Islamic regime in Iran. The ascending ladders stand as potent symbols, embodying the commendable strides achieved in social progress by preceding generations, such as the enduring legacy of women's suffrage and the civil rights movement.

Players fortunate enough to ascend these ladders mirror the positive impact of historical movements that paved the way for societal advancements, showcasing the transformative power of collective efforts. In contrast, the descending snakes assume the role of poignant emblems, serving as reminders of the persistent obstacles posed by entrenched patriarchy and societal norms. These snakes lead to setbacks, symbolising the challenges that individuals, especially women and the youth, face in their journey towards societal advancement.

This visual metaphor reinforces the idea that societal transformation often necessitates a confrontational stance against existing norms. Thus, in the transformative process every defeated snake metamorphoses into a ladder of opportunity. Rezavi highlights the potential for societal advancement even in the face of adversity, illustrating how each successive generation builds upon the victories of its predecessors.

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