Biz Rasam

Artist Statement


I am driven by a deep sense of curiosity for the world around me. Drawing is one of the first things I connected with as a child and it allowed me to communicate with others. Later, when I was introduced to other mediums like painting, sculpture, or music, the connection was fluid. I have an endless desire to explore and communicate through creative means.


My work is mainly figurative and centered around narratives of Afghanistan and its culture. Much of my recent work examines the different ethnic groups and the many identities that make up Afghanistan. I reflect on the country’s cultural diversity, give Afghans a sense of dignity, and use art as a means of dialogue to translate and communicate Afghanistan’s complexities.


The process I use is grounded in formal methods and techniques. I work on canvas or wood panels using primarily oil paints. My tools of choice vary from bristle brush to palette knife to spatula and anything else that helps me give shape to my vision. My paintings start with simple ideas - a portrait, a snapshot of Afghan society - but soon gain a life of their own. The compositions initially remain loose since my relationship with the ideas may evolve as I slowly build up the painting. Eve...

MFA - UC Berkeley 2021
BFA - San Francisco Art Academy 2008