War-Torn Contemporary Art Shows Edit
‘Living Traditions’ Unites Iran, Pakistan & Afghanista

‘Living Traditions’ is a special art exhibition that opened in the war-torn Afghan capital Kabul featuring contemporary art pieces from Iran, Pakistan & Afghanistan.

Focusing on calligraphy and miniature painting, the ambitious show features the work of 15 artists from the three countries. It is organized by former Tate Gallery curator Jemima Montagu and runs until November 20.

Montagu now works with Turquoise Mountain, a foundation that is dedicated to preserve and revitalize Afghanistan’s cultural heritage.

“I wondered if it was possible to bring contemporary art to Afghanistan while at the same time going back to the traditions of the past and seeing how they still have links to modern day,” says Montagu.

Pakistani artist Muhammad Imran Qureshi hopes that art will bring people in the region closer together, “We all live next door to each other, but there is no communication between our peoples. This experience may be able to bring about understanding, tolerance and the beginnings of change.”