Art enthusiasts can enjoy a vibrant array of exhibitions across the city. The White Line Gallery features Hadi Khani’s “Belonging” until October 20. Other notable exhibitions include Marzieh Yarali’s “Body-Place” at Bostan Gallery (until October 21), Mohammad Keyvan’s works at Iranshahr Gallery (until October 20), and Elaheh Shamlou and Azadeh Nemati at Afrand Gallery (until October 24). Additional showcases include Akram Afzali at Ech Gallery, Alireza Chamak at Negar Gallery, Asad Badehjani at Soo Gallery, Kamran Kafai at Aran Gallery, Habib Farajabadi at Etemad Gallery 1 (until November 4), and Abusaeed Asadi at Shirin Gallery (until October 21).
On October 23, the Korean Embassy in Tehran hosted the Korea-Iran Calligraphy Exhibition, celebrating 63 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Co-organized with the Cultural Coordination Center, the event’s theme, “Family,” aimed to enhance cultural exchange. Iranian artists, including Mrs. Tandis Taghavi, showcased traditional Nasta‘liq calligraphy, while twelve Korean artists, led by President Yoo Hyun-deok, displayed their refined works. The occasion marked the first visit by Korean calligraphers to Iran in nine years. Speeches highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy, with calligraphy serving as a bridge of friendship between Iran and Korea.
“Whose Life Is It Anyway?” is captivating audiences in Tehran at Homa Hall, following a successful previous run. Directed by Dorsa Aghaei, the 80-minute play features a talented cast and focuses on Ken Harrison, a sculptor who becomes quadriplegic after an accident. The narrative raises poignant questions about euthanasia and personal autonomy, exploring the ethical dilemmas of life and death. Brian Clark’s acclaimed play, originally released in 1978, remains relevant, prompting audiences to reflect on self-determination versus medical ethics. The production runs until March 14, making it a significant cultural event in Tehran.
The Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art (TMoCA) is celebrating women’s contributions to art with the “In Women’s Words” exhibition, showcasing 121 works by modern Iranian women artists. Complementing this exhibition, the museum’s cinematheque is launching a weekly documentary screening program, starting with “How Strange Is Love, Which Is Pain and Cure,” exploring the life of influential artist Iran Darroudi, and “Mokrrameh, Memories and Dreams,” highlighting self-taught artist Mokarrameh Ghanbari. Both films emphasize the artists’ struggles and achievements. The screenings occur every Sunday at 4 p.m., with free admission, inviting the public to engage with these inspiring narratives.
“Conclave,” a political thriller directed by Edward Berger, will premiere at the Andisheh Cultural Center in Tehran on Tuesday, featuring discussions with critics Hamidreza Ranjbarzadeh and Mohsen Soleimani Fakher. Based on Robert Harris’s novel, the film stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and others, depicting a conclave to elect a new pope following a sudden death. Tensions rise among candidates, including Aldo Bellini and Goffredo Tedesco, amid allegations and political maneuvering. The plot thickens with revelations of vote tampering and chaos from bombings. Ultimately, Cardinal-designate Vincent Benitez is elected pope, leading to introspection for Cardinal Thomas Lawrence amidst church politics.
Tara Attarzadeh’s Iranian short animation “End of Summer” will debut at the 5th Happy Valley Animation Festival (HVAF) in Pennsylvania from March 27 to April 1. This three-minute, dialogue-free film, created as her graduation project, follows a young girl whose swing’s rope snaps, leading her into a daydream where pigeons turn into warplanes. Attarzadeh, a 31-year-old animator from Shiraz with a Master’s degree from the University of Tehran, showcases her talent at this prestigious festival, which celebrates innovative animation. “End of Summer” highlights the emotional depth of storytelling and represents Iranian animation on an international stage.