Afaf Khalil

Biography

Afaf Khalil is a self-taught multidisciplinary artist based in Harford County, Maryland. Born in Queens, New York in 1990 and raised between the US and Egypt, her work is deeply influenced by cultural duality, emotional resilience, and intuitive expression. Working primarily in acrylics and pastels, her style leans toward Abstract Expressionism— Favoring vibrant colors, minimal detail, and fluid form to evoke spiritual and emotional depth. Afaf’s creative process is guided by instinct rather than pre-planned concepts. Each work emerges as a meditation— inviting viewers to slow down, engage their inner world, and experience visual introspection. Her recent body of work, Energy Colors, explores themes of healing, solitude, and human connection. With a background in avionic engineering and a parallel career in education and community mentorship, Afaf brings a disciplined yet soulful approach to her practice. She has exhibited in both solo and group shows throughout Connecticut and Maryland, including Yale University’s West Campus, the Colt Gateway Campus in Hartford, and Harford Artists Gallery. She is an active member of the local arts community, where she also leads workshops and mentors emerging artists.

Artistic Statement

“I predominantly work in acrylics for painting and pastels for drawings, embracing bold and vibrant palettes that evoke emotion and spark the viewer’s imagination. Influenced by van Gogh’s expressive energy, I favor the language of Abstract Expressionism— simplified shapes, radiant hues, minimal detail— to leave space for internal reflection. At the heart of my work lies the intention to offer a visual meditation— a canvas through which viewers may open their “third eye,” connect with their inner world, and awaken the emotional resonance within. My creative path often mirrors my personal journey: art has been my sanctuary, my voice, and my vehicle for healing during times of isolation or adversity in both the United States and abroad. My recent collection, Energy Colors, represents countless hours exploring layered textures, color synergy, and expressive mark-making. The work becomes a means to transcend hardship, to envision hope, and to affirm our shared humanity. Through exhibitions at Yale, Hartford, Manchester Art in the Park, and regional art fairs in Connecticut and Maryland, I strive to share this vision— and to inspire young artists through mentorship, workshops, and creative connection. Ultimately, I believe art is not just a form of expression— it is a force for unity, empathy, and transformation. Through bright, vivid, contemplative works, I seek to bridge inner and outer worlds, inviting viewers into a space of renewed imagination and collective peace.