Hiwa K's Berlin exhibition explores trauma through video works addressing state violence in Iraq and Chile

Hiwa K's exhibition 'Like a Good, Good, Good Boy' at KOW in Berlin featured several video installations addressing political violence and historical trauma. The title work documented the artist's childhood experiences in Iraqi Kurdistan, connecting his home, school, and the Amna Suraka prison used by Saddam Hussein's regime. Another video, 'Walk-Over,' featured members of Chile's 1973 national soccer team recounting torture under Pinochet's dictatorship while reenacting a politically charged match. 'View from Above' presented a miniature model of Kassel while discussing UN-designated 'safe zones' in Kurdistan that proved dangerous. The exhibition included 'Destruction in Common,' a carpet depicting Baghdad, and collages titled 'Ball ballat Babel' that referenced childhood television restrictions. Born in Iraqi Kurdistan and based in Berlin, Hiwa K created works that blend personal narrative with broader political commentary. The show ran from April 28 to July 22, 2023, at KOW in Berlin.