Maslah Art Studio is a registered Somali nonprofit in Mogadishu. We use art, education and creativity to empower young people, preserve Somali cultural heritage, promote peace and raise awareness about social issues.
Our artistic and educational activities began in 2024. MAS started by giving young people the chance to learn art and build creative skills.
Our work is growing into youth empowerment, peacebuilding, human rights, cultural preservation, environmental awareness and community engagement, with several of these programmes still in development. We want visitors, partners and families to understand that MAS is more than a traditional art studio: we are developing art as a practical tool for education, social inclusion, cultural preservation and community development.
“I started drawing when I was young, long before I had a studio or the opportunity to teach others. I learned through years of practice, patience, and personal determination.
Growing up in Somalia, I also experienced displacement and understood how difficult it could be to pursue a dream when opportunities were limited.
When I established Maslah Art Studio in 2024, my goal was simple: to create a place where young people could learn art, discover their abilities, and develop real skills.
As the studio grew, I began thinking beyond teaching painting and drawing. I wanted us to use art to speak about our culture, our communities, and the challenges people face.
Today, my ambition is to help build a generation of Somali artists who can use their creativity not only to build careers, but also to contribute positively to society.”
Maslah Abdi Dahir
Founder, CEO & Executive Director
To give young people and communities opportunities to learn, develop their skills and take part in activities that improve their lives. We work to preserve Somali culture, support peace, raise awareness of human rights and address issues affecting our communities.
A Somalia where:
We work closely with schools, artists, community groups and local institutions to plan activities that meet real community needs. We involve the people we serve, listen to their concerns and take responsibility for our work.
Our studio in Taleex, Hodan district, is where classes, mentoring and student displays happen. Get in touch to arrange a visit or register for a class.
