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When I Go Outside

Geordie Sabbagh
Canada, West Kurdistan (Rojava)
2024
78 min

Synopsis

When I Go Outside is an intimate documentary portrait of Bîstyek, a self-taught artist whose work is deeply shaped by his experiences as a refugee. Born in Rojava (Syria) and forced to flee due to war and hardship, Bîstyek rebuilds his life in Canada while confronting memories of loss, survival, and identity. Through painting, sculpture, and immersive installations, he transforms personal trauma into vivid, expressive art that reflects both his own story and those of others displaced by conflict. The film follows his creative process, including the reconstruction of the cramped spaces from his childhood, turning memory into physical form and emotional testimony.

Credits

Director(s)

Producer(s)

Geordie Sabbagh
Olga Ziman Sabbagh

extra info

Original Title

Year

2024

Duration

78 min

Category

Feature Documentary

Genre

Documentary

Production Country

Canada
West Kurdistan (Rojava)

Dialogue

English
Kurdish (Kurmanji / Northern Kurdish)

Subtitles

English

AKFF Edition

AKFF 2026

Extra

Screenings

Saturday 9 May

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Tickets & times

Saturday 9 May
18:30 –
19:22
Ketelhuis, zaal 2
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