Young female artists use miniature art to challenge extremism

Young Afghan girls are turning to art to promote their country's rich cultural heritage while challenging narratives of terrorism and extremism.

One workshop is among many in western Afghanistan, where hundreds of girls have embraced miniature painting in recent years.

The revival of Kamaluddin Behzad-style miniature art, dating back over six centuries to the Timurid era, marks a defining achievement.

This tradition, preserved and expanded by young female artists, was recently registered on UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list under Afghanistan's name.

Through their work, these artists present Afghanistan as a land of culture, history and imagination rather than conflict and extremism.

By drawing on tradition while innovating within it, they have transformed miniature art into a modern cultural force.

A brighter future

These artists are shaping more than artwork, as they actively guide social change and influence younger generations through their creative efforts.

Their work promotes coexistence, respect and education while directly countering extremist narratives that have long affected Afghan society.

Through visual storytelling, these artists present messages rejecting violence while emphasizing shared humanity, encouraging young audiences to embrace tolerance and hope.

Participants not only gain artistic skills but also internalize values that strengthen resilience against extremist ideologies and foster a more inclusive future.

Shafiqa Shams, an artist in Herat, highlighted how art is replacing a culture shaped by conflict with one grounded in reconciliation.

"Art distances people from war and violence and encourages them toward peace. Although we women live in deprivation, art has opened a window of hope, giving us strength and a sense of calm," she said.

"The only factors that can create unity and acceptance among people in society are culture and art. Art, with its peaceful nature, unites people and distances them from war and violence," said Melina Kakar, another artist.

Growing interest in art

Interest in artistic fields such as miniature painting, calligraphy and painting has expanded significantly among girls in Herat in recent years.

Art workshops and galleries have become accessible spaces where dozens of girls participate daily, contributing to a growing cultural movement.

Many of these programs offer free education, ensuring financial barriers do not limit access to artistic learning for motivated students.

Somia Sulaimankhil, head of an art gallery in Herat province, emphasized the significance of this recognition for Afghanistan's cultural identity.

"Art in Afghanistan dates back hundreds of years, to a time when there was no sign of extremism in the country," she said.

"By registering miniature art under Afghanistan's name, we introduced the beauty, history and values of Afghanistan to the world with UNESCO's help."

"During years of war, youth were distanced from art and their country's values, but now, through the growth of art, we have been able to strengthen coexistence and reconciliation in society," she told Salaam Times.