30 Powerful and Heartbreaking Works by Afghanistan’s First Female Street Artist

Afghanistan’s first female street artist is using the walls of her country to tell stories that are both powerful and heartbreaking, shining a light on the struggles, resilience, and dreams of the Afghan people. Through 30 stunning and emotionally charged works, this groundbreaking artist transforms public spaces into platforms for social commentary, addressing issues like women’s rights, war, and the pursuit of freedom in a country marked by decades of conflict.

Each mural is a striking blend of raw emotion and intricate artistry, depicting themes that resonate deeply with the realities faced by her community. Women are often at the heart of her work, portrayed in a way that demands visibility and respect, challenging traditional norms and advocating for equality in a society where their voices are often silenced. The artist’s work is not just an expression of creativity, but a bold act of resistance against oppression and a call for change.

The use of vibrant colors against the often crumbling walls of Afghan streets creates a powerful contrast, symbolizing both the fragility and strength of life in Afghanistan. Her murals serve as a testament to the endurance of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity. Through her art, she gives voice to those who cannot speak and brings attention to issues that are frequently ignored or suppressed.

This collection of 30 works is not only a reflection of the artist’s personal journey but also a mirror to the collective struggles of her country. Each piece tells a story of pain, hope, and survival, reminding the world of the ongoing challenges in Afghanistan and the courage of those who fight for a better future. Her art stands as a symbol of resilience and the power of creativity to inspire change.

More info: shamsiahassani.net | Instagram 

Meet Shamsia, a painter who has taught at Kabul city University and is considered Afghanistan’s first nice street artist.

She got into 2010 after going to a graffiti workshop led by United Kingdom artist CHU

Since then, Hassani has developed a unique style and painted her trademark character a woman with her eyes shut and all over the country

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I still remember that Afghans were not allowed to work in Iran just because of their nationality. Afghans were told that they don’t have the government’s permission to find a job, so my parents were facing a lot of difficulties. But I was young and didn’t understand.”

Eventually, her life took Shamsia back to Afghanistan. There, in 2010, she attended a graffiti workshop that was held in Kabul by Combat Communications and it has taken her on a path she still follows a decade later. I attended the workshop with 9 colleagues from Berang. Combat Communications invited CHU, a graffiti artist from the UK to lead the event.

CHU’s lectures included theory, practical work, and presentations of different artists from around the world, Shamsia added. There, we learned graffiti for the first time. As the workshop continued, we learned about spray techniques and how to paint large scale drawings on the wall

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