Explore the Vibrant ‘Iranian Abstraction’ Painting Exhibit at Tehran Gallery
Discover the vibrant world of abstract art at the Karchive Gallery in Tehran, currently featuring the exhibition “Iranian Abstraction.” This unique showcase highlights a stunning collection of works by esteemed Iranian artists alongside the contributions of American artist Robbie Austin. The exhibition celebrates the rich cultural heritage and modern artistic expressions of Iran while fostering international collaboration.
The “Iranian Abstraction” exhibit is a part of a collaborative initiative by Karchive Gallery, presenting remarkable creations from a variety of talented artists. Here’s a glimpse of the featured artists:
- Reza Bangiz
- Sadegh Barirani
- Sadegh Tabrizi
- Mohammad Ali Tarqijah
- Iran Darroudi
- Reza Daryabeigi
- Hossein Zendehroudi
- Jamshid Samavatian
- Iraj Shayestepour
- Masoud Arabshahi
- Nasser Assar
- Monir Farmanfarmaian
- Marcos Grigorian
- Sirak Melkonian
- Manouchehr Niazi
- Mohsen Vaziri-Moghaddam
- Robbie Austin
Each artist in this exhibition delves into the world of abstract art while effectively incorporating their unique Iranian identity into their creations. Among these is Robbie Austin, whose profound appreciation for Iranian culture and symbolism has led him to craft abstract works that resonate with the essence of Iran.
The exhibition statement, authored by Tuka Maleki, presents a historical perspective on modern Iranian artists. It highlights how the first wave of Iranian modernists responded to the question of modernity by revisiting the visual traditions established by the Kamel al-Molk school. These artists primarily focused on figurative painting and realism, gradually evolving towards the simplification of forms and colors, thus taking their initial steps toward modernization.
The second generation of artists drew inspiration from their studies in the West, introducing influences from European modernism, particularly abstract painting. Pioneers such as Behjat Sadr, Mansoureh Hosseini, and Mohsen Vaziri-Moghaddam were instrumental in the spread of abstract art in Iran, especially during the dynamic 1960s and 1970s.
The exhibit also features nature-inspired landscapes from renowned artists including:
- Sirak Melkonian
- Iran Darroudi
- Nasser Assar
- Sohrab Sepehri
- Farideh Lashai
Additionally, the integration of Iranian and Eastern calligraphy is prominently displayed in the works of:
- Mansoureh Hosseini
- Sadegh Barirani
- Hossein Zendehroudi
- Sadegh Tabrizi
Artists such as Marcos Grigorian, Monir Farmanfarmaian, and others showcase the diversity of motifs and elements found within Iranian folk art, while geometric abstraction is evident in the works of:
- Mohsen Vaziri-Moghaddam
- Masoud Arabshahi
- Mohammad Reza Joodat
Despite the strong narrative drive present in Iranian art, this tendency has historically hindered abstract art from becoming the dominant force in Iranian modernism. Iranian painting continues to navigate between familiar visual elements, existing at the crossroads of figurative and abstract expressions. The imaginative universe of Iranian artists, deeply intertwined with music and poetry, nurtures a romantic and lyrical dimension within Iranian abstraction. As Sohrab Sepehri beautifully articulates, “Where Western art depicts a moment in time, a halted action, or a light phenomenon, Eastern art reveals a continuous essence.”
The exhibition “Iranian Abstraction” will be open to the public until April 21 at Karchive Gallery, located at No. 13, 12th Alley, Sanai St. This event is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of Iranian cultural heritage and contemporary artistic innovation.
