Afghanistan Contemporary Art Prize 2009

In Afghanistan, the local populace is emerging from a culture of nothingness to embrace art forms banned under the Taliban. Thousands now flock weekly around the Afghan Star (their version of American Idol) and artisans are returning from exile to inject culture and vibrancy into their country.

Turquoise Mountain aims to introduce Generation Y to the arts and reconnect their parents to their artistic and cultural roots. The annual Afghanistan Contemporary Art Prize gives emerging artists a platform on which they could finally express what has been happening within their homes and neighbourhoods and become cultural and social beacons to their fellow countrymen. Kandahar-born painter Shamsia Hassani, 21, said: "These workshops have made me understand that my work is worth something. Before the workshops, I didnt think my work had much value. The workshops have boosted our confidence as artists."

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The exhibition has captured the attention of Kabul residents and the organisation is expecting a greater number of applicants for the 2010 Prize.