Hello friends, art lovers, and compassionate supporters,

My name is Dana, and I'm writing on behalf of a deeply talented Iranian artist, Afshin Maroofi, and his wife Mahtab, who are working to rebuild their lives after being forced to leave everything behind in search of safety and freedom.

A Life Devoted to Art and Beauty

Afshin is a master of Persian carpet design and mural art, with over 20 years of experience blending traditional motifs with modern methods. His creations include silk carpets, textured wall murals, and striking interior pieces that preserve and elevate Persian visual heritage.

In Iran, Afshin led a successful design studio and was one of the first to digitize traditional carpet-making processes. He and his wife moved to Portugal in 2021 to build a more secure and creative life for their daughter.

From Stability to Struggle

Shortly after arriving in Portugal, a series of events beyond their control resulted in the loss of their livelihood and access to their assets in Iran. Due to increased risk and instability, they could not return.

Afshin now drives for a rideshare company to support his family. They are facing hard living conditions, but he continues to create whenever he can—refusing to give up on his artistic vision or his family's future. Their family is now facing grave challenges to maintain their housing and livelihood.

Why We're Asking for Your Help

Afshin is not seeking charity—he is asking for a chance to create again and support his family through his art.

Your contributions will help them:

How You Can Help

A New Chapter Through Art

This is a family who risked everything to start over in peace. Afshin's art is not only his passion—it's a form of cultural storytelling and a tool for healing.

Let's help him build again—not just a studio, but a future rooted in beauty, resilience, and freedom.

Thank you so much,

Dana Manor-Zahavi

(On behalf of Afshin, Mahtab and their daughter)

Instagram : @afshin.maroofi