Afghanistan is a profoundly moving and compelling photographic exhibition by award-winning photojournalist and author Andrew Quilty. Living in Kabul for almost a decade, from 2013 to 2022, Quilty’s powerful images capture the complex tapestry of daily life throughout the country. This exhibition stands as a deeply personal narrative—an intimate glimpse into a nation too often defined by conflict.

Quilty describes his work as an ‘imperfect portrait of time and place’, skillfully balancing moments of breathtaking beauty with the harsh realities of war. Through his evocative compositions, visitors will encounter not only the devastation and hardship wrought by conflict but also the resilience, hope, and humanity of the people he lived among. His photographs invite audiences to reflect on themes of cultural identity, endurance, and the impact that war imposes on ordinary lives.

Quilty says, “To me, it was the experience of Afghan non-combatants, those upon whom the war was imposed rather than the professional soldiers who chose to participate, whose stories most deserved to be told.”

He continues, “Witnessing the experiences of Afghans for whom neither innocence nor neutrality were enough to protect them from the war, compelled me to stay and guided my focus.”

“The images I take are not just about conflict, they’re about the resilience of the people caught in it.”

Exhibition curator, Ellie Waterhouse, says, “Quilty’s ineffable portraiture comes with an authenticity gained from the time spent living there and simply observing.”

Afghanistan challenges audiences to look beyond headlines, encouraging thoughtful engagement and meaningful discussions around what it means to survive—and thrive—in the face of adversity. This exhibition is not just a showcase of Quilty’s artistic talents; it’s an invitation to connect with the stories behind the images, to empathise with distant lives, and to explore the vibrancy and complexity of Afghan society.

Waterhouse continues, “I envisage that this exhibition may naturally become a space where Quilty’s storytelling becomes an act of advocacy, education, and deep reflection within our communities.”

Afghanistan is a Museums & Galleries Queensland (M&G QLD) touring exhibition presented in partnership with photojournalist and author Andrew Quilty, and curator Ellie Waterhouse. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program. It is proudly sponsored by Heckler and supported by Human Rights Watch.

M&G QLD is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.