Project Report
| Sep 24, 2025
Studio session AFAMP 2024/2025 Cohort
![Demonstration - AFAMP studio visit]()
Demonstration - AFAMP studio visit
We gathered in anticipation, our 2024/2025 AFAMP cohort eager to meet Mr. Abass, a reputable mentor. From the moment he entered, the atmosphere shifted. This was no ordinary session; it was an opportunity to connect, to learn, and to grow under the guidance of a master artist. Each of us brought our hopes and questions, ready to see our art through new eyes.
Mr. Abass began by inviting us to share our recent works, carefully turning each canvas and studying the stories within. He asked thoughtful questions about our choices—the colors we gravitated toward, the way we balanced shapes, the emotions we hoped to evoke. His feedback felt like a conversation, not a critique, and his words lingered with us: “You must examine your shapes and compositions from multiple angles. Art is not just what is seen, but how it’s understood from every perspective.”
He encouraged us to look closer, to notice details we might have missed, and to push ourselves toward a new level of craftsmanship. It was clear he believed in our potential, and that belief inspired us to reach higher.
One moment stood out; a quiet hush fell over the room as Mr. Abass demonstrated how to correct a painting. He explained, with patience, that genuine refinement comes from respecting your materials: “To correct a painting, you must build over it with paint. Drawing on top distorts the depth. Clean the area, layer it again; respect the materials and what they can do.” Watching him work made the lesson come alive.
We realized, through his hands-on example, how much depth and texture could be achieved by priming and layering, skills that separate good artists from great ones.
Later, when the topic of references came up, Mr. Abass was candid. He reminded us not to simply copy what we see online, as they are someone else’s intellectual property.” His advice challenged us to trust our instincts and develop our unique voices.
As the session drew to a close, Mr. Abass gathered us around for a final demonstration, showing how to use lighting and shadow to breathe life into our paintings. His tip to start with the background and edges opened our minds to new possibilities: “It is better to start by painting your background, and then moving on to do your edges. This would help you capture the presence of limited light (dim light) in your piece.”
We left the room energized, eager to experiment with everything we’d learned. Mr. Abass had not only taught us new techniques but also made us believe in the power of our own creative voices.
To our generous sponsors and donors, thank you for your generous contributions. Your unwavering support has enabled us to provide mentors and staff salaries and allowances, art supplies, transportation, accommodation, meals, branded materials, and essential logistics—all at no cost to the young women we serve.
Because of your commitment, these young artists have access to opportunities they would otherwise be unable to afford. We are truly grateful for your continued partnership, which makes this impact possible.
Thank you
![Artists and their mentor]()
Artists and their mentor
![Share on Twitter]()
![Share on Facebook]()
