If a picture is worth 1,000 words, then each of the paintings below by young artists in Yemen is worth at least 10,000. Their works tell the full story of war, survival, struggle, and surprisingly — hope.
We are pleased to let some of the 30 artists take up their brushes and pens to show and tell you in their own words of gripping experiences and resolute aspirations that can do nothing but inspire.
After eight years of civil war, Yemen is enduring the largest humanitarian crisis in the world. Armed conflict, poor governance, political turmoil, and economic instability have pushed communities to the limits of their resilience. With fewer available jobs, a weak currency, and a shortfall of remittances sent from workers abroad due to COVID-19, many Yemeni families are facing severe poverty. Following years of destruction and neglect, public services — such as water and electricity — are sporadic at best, and teacher and civil worker salaries often go unpaid, making it even more difficult for citizens to access schools, healthcare, or government services.
Since 2018, USAID has supported local initiatives that strengthen community ties, safeguard human rights, promote peaceful resolution of conflicts, and harness the creativity of youth for good.
