Almond Garden

"Almond Garden" is a compelling and poignant photographic book by Gabriela Maj, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of women inside Afghanistan's numerous women's prisons. Over four years, Maj traveled across Afghanistan, capturing portraits and collecting stories that reveal the harsh realities of gender inequality and the incredible resilience of these women.

This powerful collection is more than just a series of images; it’s a testament to the strength and courage of Afghan women who have faced unimaginable challenges. Through her lens, Maj provides a window into a world that is often hidden from view, bringing to light the injustices faced by women in Afghanistan and their indomitable spirit to overcome them.

About the Photographer:

Gabriela Maj is an accomplished photographer and journalist whose work has been featured in renowned publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Vice, and National Geographic. Her photography has also been exhibited globally, including at the Thomas Werner Gallery in New York, Toronto City Hall in Canada, and Pitti Uomo in Florence, Italy.

Maj's academic background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from Parsons School of Design at The New School University in New York, and an Interdisciplinary Master’s degree in Anthropology from Columbia University. Her work spans multiple countries and topics, but it is her focus on human rights and social justice, particularly the stories of marginalized women, that truly defines her career.

Key Features:

1. In-Depth Portraits:
   
   • The book features intimate portraits of Afghan women, each telling a unique story of strength, suffering, and survival. These images bring a face to the statistics and reports often seen in the media, humanizing the issues of gender inequality.
2. Powerful Storytelling:
   
   • Accompanying the photographs are the personal stories of the women Maj encountered during her travels. These narratives provide context and depth, allowing readers to understand the broader socio-political landscape that these women navigate.
3. Focus on Gender Inequality:
   
   • "Almond Garden" shines a light on the shocking gender inequality in Afghanistan, where women are often imprisoned for so-called “moral crimes.” The book serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles for women's rights in the region.
4. Resilience and Hope:
   
   • Despite the harsh conditions, the women portrayed in "Almond Garden" demonstrate remarkable resilience. Their stories are not only about oppression but also about hope, resistance, and the quest for justice.
5. Global Recognition:
   
   • Gabriela Maj's work has been widely recognized and exhibited internationally. Her photographs have been displayed in prestigious galleries and featured in major publications, underscoring the global significance of her work.
6. Educational and Inspirational:
   
   • This book is an invaluable resource for those interested in human rights, women's studies, and photography. It offers insights into the complex realities of Afghan women’s lives and serves as an inspiration for advocacy and change.

Why "Almond Garden" is Essential:

• Unique Perspective: Offers a rare and intimate look into the lives of Afghan women in prison.
• Award-Winning Photographer: Captured by an internationally recognized photographer with a strong academic background.
• Social Justice Focus: Highlights critical issues of gender inequality and women's rights in Afghanistan.
• Inspiring Stories: Features narratives of resilience and hope amidst adversity.
• Global Appeal: Relevant for readers and viewers interested in photography, human rights, and social justice.

A Must-Have for Photography Enthusiasts and Human Rights Advocates:

"Almond Garden" by Gabriela Maj is more than just a photography book; it is a powerful exploration of the lives of women in Afghanistan's prisons and a call to action against gender inequality. Perfect for those interested in human rights, social justice, and the art of photography, this book is an inspiring addition to any collection.

Order your copy of "Almond Garden" today and delve into the compelling stories of Afghan women as captured through the lens of Gabriela Maj.