January 11, 2011 > Afghan Art Show Afghan Art Show By Mona Shah Strategically located on the commercial routes between China and India in the east and Europe in the west, Afghanistan has historically been at the crossroads of civilizations in Central Asia. Three decades ago, Afghanistan was a stable, relatively prosperous and secular country. Turmoil and extremism have dominated its history since then; this is the Afghanistan that we know of now. Although the Taliban and fundamentalist groups have suppressed artistic expression, art and culture is kept alive outside the country; refugees have organized cultural circles that sponsor concerts, exhibitions (paintings, photographs), poetry contests, and courses in calligraphy, painting, music, and poetry. "The Afghan Art Show" showcases the talent of artist Abdul Shokoor Khusrawy, known simply as "Shokoor" who just arrived from Afghanistan. His art reflects the rich history of a proud people who survive even in these challenging times. Shokoor is known for his technique of using a pallet knife on oils to change the textures of his paintings, setting him apart from other artists. "My knife style is new, and while I use it in a new way, it is still a copy of impressionism art. Some techniques are from me, but when I see impressionism art, I get their colors, their composition, and use their style. When I work, I do not copy from them. Cezanne, Van Gogh, and Monet all used the knife on their art," explains Shokoor. "The immediate goal of the exhibit is to draw attention to the forgotten Afghan art and history in order to bring the benefits and pleasures of the arts to more people, especially children who might never otherwise experience the beauty of the Afghan art" states Jelani Khusrawy, the artists brother. The exhibit will show works from Shokoor as well as other Afghani artists, Bismil, Samie Nadi and Jelani. Afghan Art Show Thursday January 13 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday January 14 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fremont Public Library 2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont (510) 745-1400 Saturday and Sunday January 15 and 16 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Newark Public Library 6300 Civic Terrace Ave., Newark (510) 795-2627