TEHRAN – The first edition of the Tehran Art Fair “Open Paper” opened at the Institute of Intellectual Development of Children and Youth (Qanoun).
Open Paper, the MENA region’s first paper-based art fair, is organized by the Tehran Gallery Owners Association in collaboration with the Visual Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, IRNA reported.
During his visit to the trade fair, Deputy Minister of Arts Mohammad-Mehdi Ahmadi emphasized the importance of the role and possibilities of paper in the visual arts, emphasizing the importance of paper as a phenomenon that raises public awareness and supports the economic circulation associated with the sale of paper-based artworks.
The event is attended by more than 40 galleries from Tehran and other cities, the Iranian Association of Illustrators, the Iranian Association of Graphic Designers, and several publishers and studios active in paper-based art.
“Open Paper” provides a platform to present a wide range of works, including paintings, drawings, prints, photography, illustrations, graphic design, collages, art books, papier-mâché sculptures, and paper-based installations.
Beyond the artistic and historical importance of paper in Iranian art, the fair’s focus on this medium also reflects economic and environmental considerations. Paper-based works are cheaper to produce, easier to transport, and more affordable, allowing a wider audience to access the art market. In the current economic situation, these will help strengthen the economic circulation of visual arts. Furthermore, the lightweight and low-consumption nature of these pieces is in line with global standards of sustainability in art.
Alongside the exhibition, “Open Paper” will host a series of expert lectures, artist discussions and specialized workshops on topics such as art economics, paper-based technologies, archiving and preservation, and artist career development. This educational and research-oriented section will elevate the Tehran Art Fair from a purely sales-driven event to a platform for knowledge exchange and professional dialogue.
The Tehran Art Fair is scheduled to be held annually in several parts under the coordination of the Visual Arts Office. “Open Paper” is the first step and aims to establish a standard, accessible and sustainable model for the Iranian art market. It aims to serve as a new structural foundation for the institutionalization of visual arts in this country.
The fair will be held until December 12 at the Institute of Intellectual Development of Children and Youth (Kanoon) on Hejab Street, Fatemi Street.
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