“I’m not attached to a family, and I have no children,” stated Hengameh Afshar, poet and artist. “I have made these choices for the sake of my art, which is my love, my child, my passion, my first priority.” Hengameh, who enjoys mixing and matching her own colors, leans toward Impressionism. She will often paint for eighteen hours without stopping, ignoring the phone and the need for food. Although every muscle in her body may ache, she is oblivious to the pain as her soul carries her into a totally different world, the glorious world of art and color. “An artistic work is a result of the moment of insanity and emotional climax,” stated Hengameh. “When a creation comes, I must paint until it is out of me.” Her paintings are powerful and dramatic. She approaches each new canvas with intense focus, determination and boldness.

When she was 23, sponsored by an older sister who was a citizen of the United States, Hengameh went to America, arriving with no knowledge of the English language and very little money in her pocket. Hengameh is one of the rare women of our time who has faced many obstacles, and hardships, yet she always has came out of those with courage and success.

Hengameh now with over sixty oil paintings and over one hundred water colors, is exhibiting her work. This multitalented Persian artist believes that her ultimate challenge has been to be a female artist within the Persian community. “I want to be a role model for women in and from the Mid-Eastern cultures, and I have a message for them,” stated Hengameh. “Women can be good teachers, artists, designers, attorneys and doctors, as well as good cooks and mothers. If they are given the chance and are encouraged by others, they can do anything!"