RASC News Agency: Despite the Taliban’s increasing restrictions, the third edition of the “Union of Female Painters of West Kabul” art exhibition was successfully held on Thursday, March 20, in Kabul. Organizers acknowledged the significant challenges in arranging the event but emphasized their commitment to fostering artistic expression despite the repressive environment. The exhibition, showcasing the works of several young female artists, was held in West Kabul with the participation of various art institutions.
According to event organizers, the exhibition was jointly hosted by Honarsara Art Academy, Golabi Gallery, Golsang Gallery, Golbarg Gallery, Ahura Gallery, and Pouya Gallery. Divided into five sections, the exhibition spans three days, concluding on Saturday. Zarmena Khaterzi, the event’s lead organizer, stated that the exhibition aimed to promote artistic expression, encourage emerging female artists, and formally introduce the “Union of Female Painters of West Kabul”.
She further revealed that a lottery will be held on the final day, with selected attendees receiving artworks as prizes, fostering greater engagement with the artistic community. Several attendees praised the initiative, calling for more exhibitions across Afghanistan to support the development of art, particularly among women and the younger generation. However, the event was held under tight restrictions. The Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice continues to impose strict limitations on public gatherings, particularly those involving women and artistic expression.
One of the organizers told RASC that Taliban authorities had issued direct warnings, stating that the display of “nude portraits, depictions of women, or any artwork interpreted as anti-Taliban” would lead to serious repercussions for those involved. Despite these constraints, the exhibition stood as an act of resilience, highlighting the enduring determination of Afghanistani women to preserve their artistic identity amid oppression.
