Fragile Faces: A Global Call for Compassion

The inspiration behind my 1001 Fragile Faces collection struck when I saw news of Ukrainian children being forcefully deported amidst war. Thousands of young lives uprooted, placed into camps, stripped of their families and identity. It reminded me of my own childhood in Tehran, hiding from bombs, terrified without understanding why. That fear and vulnerability never left me—it became the driving force behind this project.

When I share the story of these brooches, people often ask, "Which children are you helping?"—wanting to know the geography, ethnicity, or religion of those suffering. But my response is simple: Who cares about borders? The suffering of children, no matter where they’re from, is a human issue, not a regional one. Compassion has no boundaries. We should see ourselves as one if we want to experience true peace and love.

Each Fragile Face brooch, made of delicate glass or ceramic, represents the vulnerability and innocence of every child caught in the crossfire of war. They aren’t just symbols of the Ukrainian children or those from my past—they are for all children whose worlds have been shattered by conflict.

Through this project, I hope to send a powerful message: peace can only exist when we stand united, recognizing that we are all part of the same human family. We cannot choose which children deserve safety and happiness based on their place of birth. Every child is our child.

The process of crafting these brooches is a reflection of this fragility. Glass and ceramic are both strong and delicate—just like the resilience and vulnerability of these young lives. Each piece is created with care, not only to highlight the preciousness of life but also to raise awareness about the impact of war on children around the world.

Proceeds from these brooches will continue to support organizations dedicated to protecting war-affected children. The funds are not limited by geography or politics. I want my art to bridge gaps and unite people in a shared purpose: to restore innocence, hope, and humanity where it is needed most.

Let us not divide our empathy. Let’s help because it’s the right thing to do—because these children, wherever they are, are us.

Join me in this mission to make a difference. Share the message, purchase a brooch, or simply raise awareness. Together, we can contribute to a future where all children grow up in a world that values peace over division, love over hate.