The Silent Tears of Afghans

The photo exhibition by Mohammad Musa Mohammadi features selected photographs of handwritten messages left by Afghan refugees on the walls of detention centers in Indonesia. Many of those detained had hoped to reach safety in Australia but were intercepted and held – some for over a decade – without clear legal status or access to basic rights. In this context of prolonged uncertainty, the prison walls became a space for expression.

Their messages reflect a wide range of emotions and experiences: from despair and isolation to resilience, humor, and hope. Some are deeply personal, others critical or poetic. Together, they offer insight into how people respond to extreme circumstances and maintain a sense of identity and agency.

The exhibition will be displayed as part of the event at ACUD Studio.