Farahnaz Osmani Twitter: @Farahnaz786Art Instagram: @farahnaz_osmani_art

A three part painting arranged as the first letter of Herat, H. Each piece is a representation in relation to one another.

Part 1, Right: The artist’s rendition of Shamira, one of the most powerful women in Afghanistan’s history, whose figure remains unknown. The history of the Pishadians remembers Shamria for her role between two conflicting tribes and her plans of defense in constructing a fortress against the dominant tribe. Her actions caused her to be the woman between from then on. The tribe and their history should be honored, respected, and valued, and the fortress of their story known as Shemiran Castle. A part of Shamira’s shawl falls to the center of the piece, signifying the structural and conceptual dependence of each piece in this work.

Part 2, Left: The artist’s expression of the greatness and glory of the Timurid Period in Herat. It was in this time that great works of art & powerful influences of culture, such as the Timurid Tower, were created. The artist has worked to carefully capture the intricate motifs & texts written in the inscription of this tower as an act to keep its story and history alive.

Part 3, Center: The current structure of the citadel is displayed, look closely and one can find the geometric patterns commonly used in the Islamic and Timurid period of this time in some parts of its structure. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the significance of Ikhtiaruddin Castle throughout history to the present day, and its role as a symbol of empowerment for Afghan women.