Professor Amanullah Parsa (1933–2018) was not an ordinary man. He was one of the world’s most prominent and celebrated Afghan figures in modern and post-impressionist art. Born in Kabul, he broke barriers as an Afghan artist on the global stage — earning international acclaim for his sculptures and paintings, including multiple first-place honors in Afghanistan’s prestigious art exhibitions.

Awarded a rare, one-of-a-kind full scholarship by the Italian government, Mr. Parsa studied at the esteemed Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome, where he pursued advanced training in scenography, sculpture, and painting under the guidance of some of Italy’s most renowned and influential artists. This formative period not only refined his technical mastery but also deepened the cultural perspective that would define his life’s work.

He later became a professor of art in Milan, where he was especially known for his pioneering work with students with physical and cognitive disabilities — a bold and compassionate focus that set him apart as both an artist and educator. His work garnered recognition from both the Italian and American governments, and he was awarded the Ambrogino d’Oro, one of Milan’s highest civic honors, for his extraordinary contributions to education and the arts.

His exhibitions spanned across Europe, the United States, and Afghanistan. He also authored two books: Gli Sfidanti (The Challengers) and Gli Amabili (The Lovable Ones), both of which reflect his belief in the power of human potential.

He was widely known not only for his artistic brilliance, but for his unwavering honesty, integrity, and compassion. Colleagues, students, and entire communities placed their trust in him — not just as an educator and artist, but as a man whose word was as steadfast as his character. His promises were kept, his counsel was sought, and his example quietly set a standard for those around him.

What set him apart wasn’t just his talent, but the way he lived his values every day. He showed the same respect to the vulnerable as he did to the powerful, held fast to his sense of fairness, and carried himself with a steady calm that put people at ease. To many, he was more than a teacher or mentor — he was a steady presence, someone you could count on to listen, to encourage, and to stand firm in what was right.

When his first born son developed cognitive challenges after being diagnosed with schizophrenia during his first year of medical school in Italy, he faced perhaps the most personal test of his life. As a devoted father who always put his family first, he carried the same determination and compassion into this chapter of hardship. Just as he had once given hope to children with disabilities, he now had to summon that same love and strength for his own son.

Even through this deeply personal struggle, he led with quiet dignity, never seeking the spotlight, yet leaving a profound impact on everyone he encountered. His ability to bridge cultures and connect with people from all walks of life was rooted in genuine respect and empathy. Through his humility, principled truthfulness, and steadfast commitment to uplifting others, he inspired those around him to see both the beauty in the world and the potential within themselves.

His life stood as quiet proof of the power of character and compassion, and his influence continues to touch people even today. For us, carrying his legacy forward is both an honor and a responsibility. Our dream is for his legacy to live on in the world, just as it has within our family.