Mourners, I

Mourners, I.

The "Mourning" series explores two distinct traditions of mourning from different geographical locations, each characterized by different time periods, venues, and genders. It highlights the all-female tradition of "chehel-menbar" in Khoramabad, Lorestan, and the all-male tradition of "gel-giran" in Bijar, Kurdistan. One tradition is marked by silence, while the other is defined by loud expressions of grief. Women use candles to mourn, while men turn to mud and soil.

This collection was awarded the second top prize in the portrait category at the World Press Photo 2013 competition. Additionally, two pieces from this collection are held and displayed at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts.