Decades of intermittent war have taken their toll on Afghanistan’s archeological landscape. Even so, Bamiyan province is home to a rich tapestry of cultures and an abundance of ancient archeological sites.

In contrast to the bleak legacy of war, the practice of embroidery brings delicate beauty and vibrant color to the most unexpected of places. Embroidery is a celebration of Afghan craftsmanship and the virtue of creating beauty amid hardship.

Woodstock. Anti-war protests. Flower power. You may have heard of these iconic symbols that defined the hippie movement of the 1960s and ‘70s. But have you heard of the Hippie Trail? And did you know Afghanistan served as a major stop-over?

In a nation often misunderstood and locked in an oversimplified narrative of war and strife, Afghan artisans bring nuance to the story——instilling pride and nourishing a new identity, one that celebrates the spirit of Afghan creativity and ingenuity.