Archibald finalist and refugee rights advocate Moz Azimitabar exhibits at Braemar Gallery

Blue Mountains Refugee Support Group (BMRSG) is proud to present an exhibition by Kurdish refugee artist Mostafa “Moz” Azimitabar at Springwood’s community art space, Braemar Gallery.

The exhibition titled Freedom is Beautiful is a showcase of new and recent works by Moz, including his 2022 Archibald self-portrait and a series of medium and large-scale canvases. Each work reflects survival, connection and freedom. Together the artworks map a journey from detention to life in Australia, revealing art as survival, hope and resilience. The exhibition encourages the audience to reflect on freedom and seeking asylum as a human right. Refugees deserve safety and dignity.

Ahead of his exhibition, Moz reflects, “The Blue Mountains has always been a place of inspiration and healing. To bring my work here will mean sharing my story of survival, resilience, and creativity with a community that values cultural connection and social justice.”

As a Kurdish refugee imprisoned for 8 years by the Australian Government, on Manus Island and onshore detention centres, Moz discovered art as a tool of survival. While in detention he had only coffee and a toothbrush to paint with. He continues to use the toothbrush today, transforming a symbol of confinement into a voice of humanity. Each stroke of the toothbrush builds layers within the paintings – layers of connection, stories and togetherness.

Fundamental to Moz’s survival inside detention, was his connection with the Australian people including from groups like Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR), BMRSG and Grandmothers for Refugees. Moz, 13 years after fleeing Iran, has still not been allowed a permanent visa granting him the secure and safe future he deserves. BMRSG encourages the community to advocate for the hundreds of refugees still seeking permanent visas after more than a decade of waiting.

As part of Refugee Week, the BMRSG will present a free talk and screening of documentary Freedom is Beautiful with Moz at 5 pm on Saturday 13 June at the Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Hub. For tickets visit bluemountainstheatre.com.au

Freedom is Beautiful will be at Braemar Gallery in Springwood from Thursday 21 May to Sunday 21 June, coinciding with Refugee Week from 14 June.

Braemar Gallery is open Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. The exhibition’s official opening is on Saturday 23 May from 2 – 4 pm.
All are welcome. To plan your visit, see bluemountainstheatre.com.au