Journey of Resilience
My journey as an artist and storyteller is grounded in empathy and a strong sense of social responsibility. In my book, "The Phoenix in Me," I delve into the complexities of motherhood, personal struggles, and the incredible resilience found in overcoming difficult relationships. This narrative is not just my own; it’s a powerful reminder for all women who have faced challenges and emerged stronger, like a phoenix rising from the ashes.
As I transitioned from impressionist painting to documentary filmmaking, I was inspired by the compelling stories I encountered—stories that demand to be heard. Each project I embrace, whether it’s "The Phoenix in Me" or "Parallax Reflections," honors the courage of those willing to share their truths in the face of adversity.
I believe storytelling is a profound catalyst for change. By illuminating the hidden wounds and silent battles many endure, I strive to remind us of our shared humanity. My goal is to amplify these voices, fostering empathy and compassion, and inspiring others to rise from their own challenges. Together, we can create a world where every story matters and every voice is truly valued.
Victoria Derin Isikman
Phoenix in Me
Book 2023
The Phoenix in Me begins with the inspiring story of a brave and curious young woman who explored diverse cultures by traveling the world with her partner. Behind her magical love story lay untold pain and sorrow. It's a narrative that will resonate with many women – we have the ability to rise from the ashes like a phoenix, burning brightly and soaring higher than ever before. As you read her story, you'll witness the profound journey of motherhood and the often-overlooked struggles of custody battles and cultural differences that can strain relationships. As women, we often go to great lengths to keep our families together, even if it means sacrificing our needs. The protagonist's inner struggle with narcissistic relationships exemplifies her strength and resilience.
"The Phoenix in Me is not just my story—it’s a social responsibility project dedicated to women everywhere. Through this book, I aim to shed light on the silent battles women face—custody struggles, cultural challenges, and the hidden wounds of narcissistic abuse. It’s a testament to our resilience, a reminder that no matter how deep the ashes, we can rise, reclaim our voice, and inspire change for others." — Victoria Isikman
Parallax Reflection
Filmscript, 2018
Parallax Reflections is more than a screenplay—it is a voice for the voiceless. This story was born during the filming of my second documentary on the Turkish–Syrian border, where I met Syrian women who had fled unimaginable horrors. One young woman, her eyes brimming with tears, shared her truth with me. She told me of the violence she had endured, then pleaded that I not include her story in the documentary—because speaking out could cost her life. I walked away from that interview deeply shaken, carrying the weight of her words in my heart. In that moment, I knew silence was not an option. I had no choice but to write this film.Hearing her story broke something inside me. Instinctively, I hugged her—not as a filmmaker, but as a fellow human being who could feel her pain. As a responsible artist, I cannot look away from these realities. Parallax Reflections confronts the devastating truth of what so many women refugees face—rape, abuse, and, unthinkably, being sold for less than a pack of cigarettes.These are not distant, abstract tragedies. They are happening right now, to real women, mothers, daughters, and sisters. Through this film, I want to honor their courage, shed light on their suffering, and awaken a collective will to act—to protect them, to help them heal, and to restore their dignity. Because I believe with all my heart that storytelling can move people—and when hearts are moved, the world can change." — Victoria Derin ISIKMAN
The Two Million
Documentary 2017
My first documentary short film, The Two Million, was born from a simple conversation that forever changed me. While in Chicago, I was at a hairdresser getting my nails done when I met a Syrian pilot—the cousin of my hairdresser. That brief conversation shifted my life as an artist and oil painter, inspiring me to become a documentary filmmaker. It made me reflect deeply on my responsibilities beyond painting landscapes. I realized I had a duty as an artist, but I didn’t yet know where to begin.
The pilot, now a refugee who had lost everything in the war, shared his story with quiet sadness. He told me he no longer knew who he was—bombs had taken his home, his work, his family photographs—his past and his future. I couldn’t give him back what was lost, but I could listen. And as an artist, I felt it was my responsibility to share his story, and the stories of so many others like him, with the world.
With the support of a small but dedicated crew in Turkey, we set out to go beyond statistics and show the human face of displacement. We met dentists, doctors, teachers, and other skilled professionals—people whose talents could enrich any community, yet who were struggling to rebuild their lives. We also met children whose laughter had been silenced by the deep emotional, physical, and psychological wounds of war.
My background as an impressionist painter helped me connect with refugees through art, giving them a safe space to express their pain and loss. Those moments were as much about healing as they were about storytelling. The Two Million is my way of honoring their courage, preserving their dignity, and carrying their voices forward. I believe that when we truly see and hear each other, compassion grows—and from compassion, real change becomes possible.
— Victoria Derin Isikman (Baratka)