Art has been a source of comfort for thousands across the globe, and Afghan youth aren’t far behind in using it to heal their war-torn country. Many young people are connecting with their culture, through art as means of self-therapy, as well as a means of expressing their opinions.
Teaching art
A recent article features the story of a young Calligrapher and artist who was teaching students at a local art center. Although a calligrapher himself, Sami Faquiri allows his students creative liberty, encouraging them to include nature and Afghan monuments and cultures in their works. He wants to help his students express their ideas through art. One of his students said that he would like to be a calligrapher but that would require peace and security.
Kabul and other major cities are full of paintings and messages on the walls, that reflect the reality of the people’s lives. Even so, educators hope to see a generation of painters and artists, who can help Afghanistan heal.
Creating hope through a gallery
Last year another young Afghan woman, set up a gallery in order to create jobs for struggling artists in Kabul. Although the gallery is small, it offers employment and means of earning an income to many young people who have been deeply affected by the pandemic. Her gallery now employs 10 people, and together they sell all the paintings in the gallery to aficionados, ranging from $100 to $200.
Although Marzia Panahi is only 21 years old, her hopes for her country are huge. Although her effort may seem small to some, she has offered an escape to many young people within the community. according to one member, the gallery has helped her cope with depression and anxiety
