Book excerpt: Shirin Neshat's determination to undermine Western assumptions about Middle Eastern women has resulted in an already substantial body of astounding and profound work. These images wrest emotional, aesthetic and political freedom from the dominant patriarchal culture, whether it be the Colonialist West or fundamentalist Iran. This volume offers a look at Neshat's latest film installation, and includes critical commentary on the work. The book also offers a concise overview of Neshat's career with images from her most important works, plus a biography and bibliography.