'I want my art to give a voice to Afghan women'

An Afghan refugee says she hopes to give a voice to women in her home country still living under the Taliban regime.

Masuma Anwari's work once lined the walls of Afghanistan's national gallery in Kabul but when the Taliban regained power in 2021, she was forced to leave everything and flee to the UK.

With her husband and seven-year-old son, she was given the chance to start again after settling in the West Midlands three years ago.

"I may have lost my home but I have not lost my identity," said Ms Anwari.

"Sometimes I imagine if I were still in Afghanistan and unable to draw or paint, my heart would be silent."

Her new portfolio of work has been displayed at a gallery and work space in Lichfield, Staffordshire.

Mrs Anwari has fond memories of growing up in Kabul where she worked as a schools ambassador for the British consulate.

But when the Taliban regained power four years ago "everything changed overnight".

"I still remember the gunfire sounds and explosions," she added.

"My son and I are still sensitive to loud sounds because a strong explosion was not far from us."

Since regaining power in August 2021, the Taliban has steadily imposed laws and regulations that reflect its austere vision of Islamic law.

Girls over the age of 12 have been barred from getting an education and many women from jobs.

The Taliban has repeatedly said girls will be allowed to return to school once its concerns, such as aligning the curriculum with Islamic values, are resolved - but so far no concrete steps have been taken to make that happen.

"Life for women has completely changed," said Ms Anwari.

"But they still keep their hope alive for a better future. I wish one day they will experience freedom and security.

"My painting is not just a hobby. They can't express themselves due to the restrictions but I want to reflect the Afghan women's silent voice with my painting."

Seven of Ms Anwari's pieces are now on show at Courtyard Fine Art Lounge in Lichfield.

She was also commissioned to create a piece for the city's Shire House, a shared working space which opened earlier this year.

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