TEHRAN – An exhibition of paintings by Iranian artist Yazdan Saadi is currently on display at Sales Gallery.
Saadi’s latest collection, entitled ‘Tehran Times’, offers a fascinating fusion of traditional Iranian painting and contemporary conceptual art. Inspired by the paintings of Gave Hahne, Saadi created a series of works that bridge history and contemporary expression.
His paintings, rich in symbolism and detailed elements, are depicted on copies of the Tehran Times newspaper, which have been converted to canvas. It’s a method that imbues his work with layers of meaning, history, and cultural memory.
“After many years of reflection, I have decided to present a solo exhibition. This body of work is an evolution of the previous collection I created ten years ago, presented in a refined form and deeper content,” the artist explained. His works depict scenes from the Persian epics, particularly Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, reimagined in a modern context using elements of imagery from Gaveh Khane and Sakkahane paintings.
Mr. Saadi emphasized the importance of media and journalism in his artistic practice, saying, “The media is not just a background of my work, but an integral part of it. I have modernized the traditional Iranian painting style and created a new style and concept in Iranian painting.” His artwork features intricate detail and numerous elements, transforming newspapers into historical stories and symbols that challenge and captivate viewers.
Born in 1974, Saadi holds degrees in graphic design and photography. His career includes numerous awards, including the Fajr Poster Design Award in 2001 and 2002 and the Best Sculpture Award. His works, often small in size and composed of newspaper collages, focus on ancient myths and characters, creating a dialogue between past and present.
The “Tehran Times” exhibition was originally scheduled to run until October 14th, but has been extended for an additional week, allowing visitors to experience the innovative works in the galley located at 148 Karim Khan Street until October 20th.
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