Title: “Suppression”
Size: 3 by 3 ft.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Year: 2023
Description: The heavy and rough Pashtun male chaddar in this painting reveals the delicate white female
Pashtun chaddar underneath, unmistakably represents the lasting restrictions placed upon women. This sad
image depicts the suppression faced by Pashtun females. It represents a community with male dominancy
where male superiority prevails, despite the intricate beauty of the Pashtun culture. The small hole in the
male chaddar shows the minimum consideration in Pushtun community. The tiny baby breaths emerging
from under the male Pashtun chaddar symbolize the desire to avail freedom from the suppressive culture.
Talking in professional tone, this painting shows a collective understanding of gender dynamics, provoking
reflection and prompting action towards gender equality in a community.