This concept piece is inspired by the aesthetics seen in Western Sydney Suburbia featuring François Sagat as a third generation Middle Eastern man / woman.

The piece explores the conflicting coexistence of elements in society; modern vs. traditional, men vs. women, Middle East vs. White Australia. Remarkably though, all these elements constitute the fabric of Australian multiculturalism.

Despite the initial boundaries, may they be visual, cultural, sub-cultural, religious, ethnic, gender or sexual, our common goals and aspirations unite us despite the individual fears and stereotypes we have about the other.

In this piece François Sagat reflects on the battle of masculinity vs. femininity, traditional vs. modern society and how this transition from traditional to modern created a whole sub-culture which has (unfortunately) become a victim of discrimination by both traditional and modern sides.
This piece is not a reflection on Islam, or Muslim people in Australia. On the contrary, it is an abstract work of art interpreting battles of identity that today’s youth are fighting whilst in the process of determining who they are.

As a society it is our responsibility to accept each other, and not live by the prejudices and stereotypes of our forebears, but see beyond the veils and smoke.
We must open our eyes and see the humanity in every person we encounter and learn to accept them wholly, seeing the way they are as integral and vital in our journey together – the one that that we call life.

Elvis Di Fazio & Ron Wan
François Sagat (Mother/Son)
Richard Kavanagh (Hair)
Pauly Bonomelli (Burka)
Ttyl8er (Music)
First apperance at TIFF Bell Lightbox Theatre part of Disconnect Fashion Film Festival 2014 in Toronto, Canada.

Thank You, The Collections and Disconnect Fashion Film Festival / Toronto International Film Festival.