TEHRAN- An exhibition of calligraphy works by Afghan female artist Fereshteh Ahmadi is currently underway at Tehran’s Taraneh Baran Gallery.

The exhibit features 22 pieces of illuminated Nastaliq calligraphy, focusing on themes related to Imam Hossein (AS), Ashura, and Arbaeen, ILNA reported. 

This exhibition supports the objectives of the Taraneh Baran Gallery, which aims to promote Iranian-Islamic arts on both domestic and international levels, and it represents the first showcase of Afghan female calligraphy in West Asia, the report added.

On the sidelines of the event, Afghan calligraphy master Mohammad Mehdi Mirzai highlighted that despite substantial challenges, Afghan women are striving for knowledge and art, achieving remarkable levels of success.

He further noted, “Fortunately, the Islamic Republic of Iran has provided a very conducive environment for women to attain knowledge and artistic skills. This has created suitable conditions for Afghan women to flourish their talents in Iran.”

Mahbubeh Kazemi, founder and director of the Taraneh Baran Gallery, underscored that supporting Iranian-Islamic arts was a core goal in establishing the gallery. 

"Our main objective is to support artists across the Islamic world. We strive to provide support to active artists in Iranian-Islamic arts both domestically and internationally, employing various methods, from exhibitions to other forms of assistance.”

She also noted that the cultural tapestry of Iran is significantly broader than its geographic borders. "I am delighted to witness this beautiful exhibition of calligraphy by Afghan women at the Taraneh Baran Gallery, bringing together Iranian and Afghan artists. I hope this effort yields fruitful results, as supporting artists—especially women—is a key goal for both myself and the Taraneh Baran team. It's essential to recognize that women's issues are a focal point today, particularly in culture and arts, which is paramount among global topics."

Kazemi added, “I am grateful that the Calligraphers’ Association has supported us throughout the challenging years in promoting Iranian-Islamic arts and calligraphy. I hope that, through our collaboration, we can continue to shine in promoting Iranian-Islamic arts, especially in calligraphy, both nationally and internationally."

Mahtab Sahel, Afghanistan's representative at the ECO Cultural Institute, addressed the status and conditions of Afghan women: “The struggles faced by Afghan women are well-known. A woman who introduces herself as an artist has certainly overcome numerous challenges to reach this point.”

The exhibition will be running until Friday.

SAB/