Introduction

Somali art boasts a rich and extensive history that spans thousands of years. Among the earliest examples are the remarkable rock paintings found in the Laas Geel caves near Hargeisa. These caves house some of Africa's oldest known rock art, dating back approximately 9,000 years. The artwork features a wide array of scenes, including depictions of cattle, wild animals, and human figures, often adorned with intricate headdresses. These ancient artworks provide valuable insights into the lives of the early Somali people, illustrating their deep connection with nature and their reliance on livestock. The prominent focus on cattle underscores the importance of pastoralism in Somali culture, a tradition that remains vital to this day. Moreover, the vibrant colors and elaborate designs present in the Laas Geel paintings reflect the strong aesthetic sensibilities of early Somali people, a characteristic that has been preserved and cherished through generations. 

In this essay, I interviewed a young Somali artist, Rahma Abdi Hashi, a full-time mechanical engineer at Tamarso. Rahma uses Evoke as a brand name. The essay also highlights key moments and reflections from other Somali artists.

Times of Wars and Their Impact on Art

During the era of civil war after the Somali government collapsed, Somali art went down, and those who had art talent fled the country while those who stayed couldn’t draw anything due to the challenges and limited opportunities they had. At the time, the arts became scarce. Although women were the shadow of hope in every scary scene we’ve experienced, they tried to change the challenges into opportunities. And that was when many Somali women learned arts and showed the talent they had, and that they could be like Frida Kahlo.

Rahma and many other Somali women artists born in that era showed the potential they had, so I began by asking what are the major challenges faced by Somali women when it comes to art and culture during times of civil wars?

She explained "During times of civil wars, Somali women faced significant challenges in the art, including restrictions on rights, physical abuse, war's unique challenges, social pressure and lack of freedom to express their art, which hindered their participation in the arts. However, despite these obstacles, some women courageously used art and culture to express their feelings, inspire others and show their potential to contribute to the rebuilding and development of society during these tough times".

Hoy Exhibition

Mahad Mohamed, Mohamed Mire and Fabio Scrivanti held the first Somali-owned exhibition titled “HOY” at the National Museum in Mogadishu, in July 2023. Mahad and his team demonstrated how a single effort can lead to significant changes, highlighting that Somali people can achieve great work when they unite. The Somali “HOY”, which translates into “HOME” in English, represented where life begins, and loved ones meet.

At this event, they showcased beautiful artistic activities, introduced, the concept of “HOME” and displayed the beauty of art, photographs from Somali people and their land, and the contributions of Somali women in the art and photography fields. Many Somalis gathered there to witness what “Hoy” holds. Hoy was an inspirational event that led the art groups to do the same, like Fankeenna in Hargeisa, which did the same in February 2024. “Mahad, as you are one of the organizers, could you share what this event meant to you? Additionally, how did women participate or contribute to this event? ” I asked.

Mahad Mohamed commented “Thank you Qodax, it means a great honor to me. I feel the joy of holding the first exhibition of this kind in the country, which cannot be underestimated. Somali women participated very well, you can see how they demonstrated their achievements there, and you can understand how eager they are to have exhibitions like this, where they can showcase their capabilities and artistic creativity.”

Sana Ashraf, Ayan Saed, Najah Harun and Faduma Mohamed participated in the “Hoy” Exhibition. They presented their work and showed that Somali women can do amazing things and also have a huge talent in their hearts. The first three participated with their art and Faduma presented her photography. Male Somali photographers also presented their work there; Cyprints, Mohamed Utama, Kalik Ahmed, Said Fadhaye and Mamaduomar were among them. Their contributions shined through the exhibitions. 

Side of the exhibition. Source: Muhammad Utama

Sanaa explains her art to visitors. Source: Muhammad Utama

Another side of the exhibition. Source: Muhammad Utama

I continued by asking Rahma “What is the importance of images and art exhibitions that showcase Somali culture, especially women-led?”

She reflected “Images and art exhibitions led by women are vital for showcasing Somali culture as they highlight unique perspectives and narratives. The events encouraged female artists by providing visibility and a platform to challenge the stereotypes, promote cultural understanding and inspire future generations.”

The Tales of Somali Women Artists

Although Somali women who make art are few, many of them are trying to raise their hands and show what Somali women can do. Najma Hashi Ahmed, who uses Nujuum Arts as an artistic name, is one of the best examples if we talk about how Somali women are in the art industry. Najma drew many pieces, and she always talks about the art that Somali women can do.

Nujuum said in an interview in 2020 “I want to continue making this beautiful image of Somali girls because we, as Somali females, can do whatever we decide to do in our lives, and we can create our own lives without fearing anyone. Our society is a male-dominated society, but we are struggling and fighting against that domination, that we also can make our dreams come true through our hard work and we can speak out and be heard.” 

Nujuum Arts paintings. Source: Muhammad Utama

“How do Somali women use art to address social issues such as gender equality and education?” I asked Rahma.

Rahma noted “Somali women use art to tackle key social issues like education and women’s rights. They express their views and address cultural challenges through songs, literature, traditional storytelling and visual arts. These artistic forms allow them to highlight issues like gender discrimination and abuse while advocating for educational equality. Despite obstacles, they continue to showcase their talents globally, using both traditional and modern platforms, including social media. For me, I use Instagram, to promote social change and gender equality.”

Sana Ashraf is also one of the notable Somali artists. She graduated a civil engineer and had a passion for art like Rahma. She draws art related to Somalis and nature. She uses her art to promote awareness of many challenges, like social, climate and gender equality through social media. She presented her art in Hoy and other exhibitions, like the EUGREENWEEK exhibition. 



Sanaa's art about the environment. Source: Muhammad Utama

A visual artist, Shaimaa Maad is also a remarkable artist who participated in the Hangool inaugural exhibition held by Fankeenna.  She graduated as a nutrition and food scientist and pursued a second degree in architecture and urban planning. I asked her what she used for art, and she said, “In general, for me, art is a way of communication, to express what I feel, think or want to say.” Her contribution to the Hangool inaugural exhibition was notable, and she presented mixed artwork. 



Shaimaa's participation in the Hangool Exhibition. Source: Muhammad Utama

Rahma’s work is deeply rooted in psychology. She makes realistic art deeply rooted in social realism. “Art is about telling the truth, and I do only that,” Rahma said.

Rahma's painting on self-blame. Source: Muhammad Utama

Fatima Aweys, a young Somali artist who makes paintings, illustrations, and manga art will come up on this list. Fatima is among the young Somali talented women who made their art to track social change, and promote peace and integrity. Fatima says that art is “a way to express yourself.” She made her art to express herself by showing the world, how capable Somali women are. 

Fatima Aweys holds a painting she made about peace. Source: Muhammad Utama

Thinking about the broader art ecosystem, I asked Rahma "How does the global community view the role of Somali women in art and the culture?”

“The global community acknowledges the vital role of Somali women in preserving and transforming their culture through art, despite facing significant challenges. They saw that we use various artistic mediums to address social, cultural, and political issues promoting women’s rights and leveraging modern technologies to enhance their visibility and impact globally” she commented.

Najah Harun is also unforgettable when it comes to Somali artists. Najah uses her art and paintings for self and social expressions. In a 2024 interview she reflected “My main themes were always a self and societal expression, you see, I was born after the civil war in a country that lost most of their ways of self-expression, so my generation of creative artists, we by default became the ones that try to rebuild that bridge. Most of my paintings are a scream at the canvas if I can put it that way, what I can't write about I paint, that’s usually how it is most of the time for me.”

Najah Harun poses in front of her artistic work. Source: Muhammad Utama

These women I mentioned earlier and other Somali women artists show the potential they hold. They try to use their art in terms of peace, unity, and strength in the Somali community. Although they don’t go to the college of art and study other fields, they don’t stop promoting peace and culture and telling the truth and their ideas through art. For Instance, Nujuum Hashi made art about an innocent civilian killed by Somaliland police during a protest against Mr Bihi’s government back in August 2022. She also made another art about a young woman kicking one of the ministers of Muse Bihi. 

Both paintings were drawn by Nujuum. Source: Muhammad Utama

“What compelled you to pursue art, despite studying other fields, like engineering at university?” I asked Rahma.

“I think art allows individuals, including engineers like me, for instance, who face stressful work to express their ideas creatively through art and drawing. Art serves as a mental escape from the rigors of technical tasks, offering a refreshing way to engage the mind. For many, I believe, art represents a transformative tool that blends technical skills with creativity, allowing them to explore and communicate their thoughts uniquely“ Rahma replied.

Conclusion

Somali women are redefining the arts, transforming centuries-old traditions into powerful contemporary expressions. Historically, celebrated for their craftsmanship in rural settings, these women are now creating art that rivals their global counterparts, defying stereotypes and revitalizing Somali culture.

Despite decades of cultural archivists and change-makers using their creativity to heal, inspire and rebuild their communities, celebrating artistic expression and community, their work extends beyond aesthetics, tackling issues like gender equality, social justice and peacebuilding.

Recent events such as the Hoy exhibition, targeted training for young girls to cultivate artistic skills, and art exhibitions at local universities, like Simad University, further symbolize cultural renaissance. Adding to this momentum, Sheekadeena with the collaboration of 4cartstudio and ewaranp brought together twenty young talented women, many of whom were painting for the first time. Their art was a powerful display of creativity and courage, which highlights the vital role of artistic platforms in empowering women and fostering community connections.

Photo by Osama Nour of the event. Source: Muhammad Utama

However, sustaining this momentum requires great support including, funding, platforms and education. As Rahma says, “Art is about telling the truth, and I do only that.” Through their truth, Somali women are challenging norms, breaking barriers, and ensuring their voices are heard. Their art is not just a reflection of culture, but a force shaping its future, creating a legacy of resilience and innovation that will inspire generations to come. We must continue to invest in initiatives that empower and elevate the voices of Somali women in the arts, ensuring that their contributions are acknowledged and celebrated widely.