Mind-bending photos by anonymous cousins show the pain and dreams of Afghan women
Two anonymous Afghan cousins have created a powerful series of black-and-white photographs that capture the struggles and aspirations of women in Afghanistan. Their work, which blends autobiography with fiction, reflects both the harsh realities of life under Taliban rule and the hope for a better future. The photographs are currently on display at the Photoville Festival in Brooklyn, New York.
- ▪The cousins, Mahnaz and Somayeh Ebrahimi, use pseudonyms to protect their identities from Taliban retribution.
- ▪Their photographs depict women in traditional burkas engaging in activities that symbolize resilience and hope.
- ▪The exhibition showcases their unique perspective on life in Afghanistan, combining elements of magic realism and poetry.
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Mind-bending photos by anonymous cousins show the pain and dreams of Afghan women May 24, 20268:40 AM ET By Diane Cole This photo, from a series of pictures by two anonymous cousins, is entitled "The Music of Poverty and Violence." The subject is playing an automatic weapon as if it were a string instrument. Mahnaz Ebrahimi|January 2026 hide caption toggle caption Mahnaz Ebrahimi|January 2026 Do these photos depict fiction or reality ... or both? A bicyclist whose dark, flowing burka enfolds her body from head to ankles sits with hands perched on the handlebar, seemingly undaunted by the meshed veil that covers her eyes and restricts her sight.
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