Thesis Book - Seeds of Hope

Artists, such as Shamsia Hassani, risk arrest and even murder to
spread their messages of hope and activism to the people of the
city. Through art, both men and women are able to speak out against
the violence and tyranny Afghans endure. Street art in particular
allows messages to reach a massive and diverse audience, ensuring
that people from all corners of society are able to see and enjoy,
be inspired or be incensed.
Fig 23
There is deep symbolism to Hassani’s signature art character,
the woman with closed eyes. The character conveys sadness and
pain, the desire to look away from the destruction of war and the
struggle for women, in particular. But, the image also inspires joy
through Hassani’s use of bright colors, the inclusion of musical
instruments and the simple pleasure of seeing a crumbling wall
transformed by a beautiful work of art.
Art can bring about social change in Afghanistan. Hassani, is part
of a generation who has never known peace. They spent their entire
lives in wartime and can only dream of peace in Afghanistan. Until
then, they will continue to illustrate a vision of a future in
which there is peace, equality, justice and unity.
49