Sculptor Chenar Nizar works on a statue of renowned Kurdish poet Mufti Penjweni, set to be installed in his hometown.
By sculptor Chenar Nizar
New statue honors Kurdish poet Mufti Penjweni in his hometown
PENJWEN — A new statue honoring renowned Kurdish poet Mufti Penjweni is set to be installed in his native town as part of a broader effort to celebrate his literary legacy.
The project, which reached its current phase after four months of work, is the second statue of Penjweni by Sulaymaniyah-based sculptor Chenar Nizar. His first statue of the poet stands in Sulaymaniyah city.
The final location for the new sculpture in Penjwen has yet to be determined, as Nizar’s team continues work on its molding and finishing. The artist indicated that the statue will most likely be placed in a public space of significance to the community.
“We want to convey the message of the revival of our nation and our personalities through sculpture to the new generations, especially in terms of Kurdish attire and authenticity,” Nizar said.
Mufti Penjweni, born in 1881 in Bestana village near Penjwen and deceased in 1952, is celebrated for his patriotic and socially instructive poetry. His verses not only urged the community to send their children—especially girls—to school but also served as a rallying cry in the Kurdish national struggle. His work frequently drew inspiration from the natural beauty of Kurdistan.
Nizar also outlined plans for future works, including a statue of legendary singer Hasan Zirak for the city of Kurdish Bukan in Iran and a monument dedicated to Mohammad Mamle, another iconic figure in Kurdish music. Last year, Nizar unveiled a 2.45-meter-tall statue of Hasan Zirak, honoring one of the most influential voices in Kurdish culture.
The accomplished sculptor’s portfolio includes tributes to several prominent Kurdish figures such as Dilshad Mariwani, Sherko Bekas, Piramerd, and Bachtyar Ali.
