Sar Zameen e Man by Zakir Hussain
Illustration and original composition
2022
Digital commission for Duniya Behter
* Content Warning: Image contains gun violence .
The musical part of Zakir’s work is an instrumental rendition of the traditional Afghan folk song Sar Zameen e Man, which he performs on the rubab.
The song’s original lyrics allude to the pain of losing your home country, becoming a refugee, and witnessing the destruction of one’s beloved homeland. It voices helplessness and sadness of these things happening beyond their control.
Zakir was moved to create this work when he saw current footage of the destruction of musical instruments and dismantling of women’s right to education and basic freedoms by the Taliban in Afghanistan.
He wanted to show what is happening in his home country in his own way by combining his love for music and interest in digital art.
Artist Statement:
“I’m excited to be part of Duniya Behter project. I think it’s a good opportunity to show what we have been doing through in lockdown and how we felt during these hard times. It has also been good to meet new people from different backgrounds and cultures to collaborate with and share our ideas together.” — Zakir Hussain
About the artist:
Zakir Hussain
Zakir is a talented musician from Afghanistan, currently working as a security guard. He loves music and plays the rubab, a traditional Afghan instrument. He is also learning Indian classical music as well as developing skills in digital arts and illustration.
Related Projects:
Sar Zameen e Man by Zakir Hussain was commissioned through MAV’s program Duniya Behter. Supported by the Victorian Government through the Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (PRMC) program. Duniya Behter is delivered in partnership with Point of Difference Studios.
