A young Afghan artist says she turned to painting in recent years as a way to cope with the emotional toll of being barred from education under Taliban rule. Safa, who has been painting for nearly four years, says she uses art to express the creativity and resilience of Afghan girls and to tell their stories to the world.
“In the face of these challenges, I chose art to escape the shadow of educational deprivation,” she said. “Through the language of painting, I want to communicate everything I’ve left unsaid.”
Safa says her artwork primarily focuses on the conditions in Afghanistan. “All of my paintings carry messages. I try to make each piece convey something meaningful to the viewer,” she said. “I speak through my art. I want to use the silent language of painting to connect with my people and show my art to the world. It inspires me and gives me positive energy.”
She says she has created dozens of works, many of which depict the experiences of ordinary Afghans, especially girls and women. Despite a landscape filled with restrictions and uncertainty, Safa insists she remains committed to a brighter future.
Her concerns, however, go beyond personal expression. She notes a severe lack of support for artists in Afghanistan and highlights the economic struggles many face. “Unfortunately, there has been no support from the authorities in painting or the arts in general,” she said. “We call on officials to support us in every way possible so we can show our art to the world — to show that Afghan girls are strong and capable.”
Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have imposed sweeping restrictions on women and girls, banning them from schools above grade six and from universities. Despite widespread domestic and international condemnation, the policies remain in effect.
Still, many Afghan women and girls continue to push back through any avenue they can find — including art — seeking to break through the suffocating barriers and work toward a brighter tomorrow.
