Sparks in the Dark: 260 Weeks of Resilience

Sparks in the Dark celebrates the resilience, creativity and courage of women living with the enduring impacts of the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021).

Created by emerging artists Mursal Azizi and Kat Rae, the exhibition brings together traditional artistry and contemporary artistic practice. At its heart are 260 embroidered handkerchiefs, created by 45 women living in Afghanistan—one for every week since the Taliban regime seized control of the country in August 2021. These are presented alongside powerful new works by Azizi and Rae, creating a moving dialogue across cultures, generations and lived experiences.

The exhibition is shaped by the artists' deeply personal connections to conflict. Rae is an Australian Army veteran and war widow, while Azizi is an Afghan artist based in Melbourne whose practice explores women's empowerment, identity and social justice through her lived experience.

Together, these works create a rare and powerful connection between Afghan women, Australian veterans and Victoria's Afghan community. Through intricate embroidery and contemporary art, Sparks in the Dark shares stories of resilience, loss and hope, honouring the women who continue to create beauty and meaning despite oppression.

The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the enduring human impact of war and the extraordinary strength of those whose stories continue long after conflict fades from the headlines.