About

Statement

Growing up amid the aftermath of the Islamic revolution in Iran exposed me to many unique events. In

my current series, I use images related to some of the darkest events of the post-revolution era and

combine them with bright colors and patterns that permeated nearly every aspect of my youth. By

recalling these and other images of cultural importance, such as Iranian pop singers and poets, I am

afforded the opportunity to freely express my feelings and my Iranian identity. My earliest memories are

imbued with the colors and patterns of family gatherings. The Persian carpets I played on while my

family sipped tea from my grandmother’s floral tea set are forever ingrained in my memory and serve as

a catalyst for some of the positive elements of my current my artwork. Unfortunately, there are many

negative aspects of growing up in Iran that has also shaped my identity. The Islamic regime and the

enforcement of its dogma have shaped the lives of all Iranians. I spent the majority of my life being

forced to wear a hijab and unable to speak freely, and despite having left Iran seven years ago, the 

omnipresent hand of the Iranian regime has had an enduring impact. It is through the act of painting 

that I am able to freely express my identity as an Iranian woman.

Biography