More about me
I am an Afghan-Dutch female artist living in Amsterdam. Born in the capital city of Afghanistan, Kabul. Most say I am a lover of meaningful conversations, Mantu (Afghan dish), cherries, and above all: authentic expression in every form: whether that’s an amazing dance, a heart-warming song, an inspiring book or a beautiful artwork.
In most of my work you may recognize not only the Afghan heritage but also a playful touch of Dutch influence, from famous Dutch artists such as Vermeer, Rembrandt and Vincent van Gogh. I also get very inspired by Escher, Salvador Dali, Picasso and other world-famous artists.
Due to its rich culture, kind-hearted people and beautiful landscapes, Afghanistan used to be a touristic area during the 60s and 70s. Unfortunately due to politics and war, our family had to leave our home when I was 4 years old. We ended up in the Netherlands and after 1 year in several refugee camps, we were allowed to stay permanently.
As a little girl growing up in this country with the funny language, I was always drawing, painting, dancing, writing or reading. Creativity gave me a safe bubble to escape from all the troubles in the world. Growing up, I was that quiet and sweet girl in class that would draw eyes in everybody’s diary (on their request, of course) and later, when I was around 12 years old, I wanted to be a Fashion Designer – the best in the world!
A few years later, however, I started believing art school was out of reach for me, even though it was still my biggest dream. Nevertheless, instead of joining the Fashion Academy, I decided to study Psychology and Business Management. My plan was to become a successful business woman in the fashion industry.
In 2018 I travelled back to Kabul for the first time in my life. In this vibrating city I realized how most of my work shows my Afghan heritage – From colors ranging between turquoise blues to saffron reds and yellows. Also the designs on textiles and the traditional, Afghan nomadic clothing: tiny mirrors on textiles reflecting the light, organic and soft shapes… So beautiful.
You can read more about me in “Wie we zijn”, a book describing the life story of 25 selected refugee women who grew up in the Netherlands:
Publications
“Inspirerende verhalen met een lach en een traan die ons doen beseffen dat we meer op elkaar lijken dan we van elkaar verschillen. Het is een reminder aan ons allen: samen maken we het verschil en het is nooit te laat om dromen in daden om te zetten. Het boek “Wie we zijn” is een initiatief van Harry Kleine, fiscaal jurist en fotograaf. Het boek is te koop via uitgever Kyosei.”
