Community Spotlight: Persian Place Epic Expressions: Shahnameh by Seven Female Artists The unique objects displayed here reflect the creative expressions of seven international female artists selected by Persian Place, a nonprofit organization with an emphasis on Persian art, which is committed to providing space and time for artistic experimentation and research. Seven international female artists were invited to create work inspired by the Shahnameh, a 10th and 11th-century epic poem by Persian poet Abul Qasem Ferdowsi. The Shahnameh narrates the heroic tales of Persian kings and also acknowledges the pivotal role of Iranian women as influential nurturers and warriors in their communities. The showcased artists include Shirin Aghdaie, Sasha Furlan, Melissa Meier, Yasaman Mostajeran, Marty Ornish, Sara Soleimani Qashqai, and Soroor Sharifi. Shirin Aghdaie is a Tehran University graduate who skillfully captures the Shahnameh's essence through mirror work, a characteristic material in Persian decorative arts. Sasha Furlan, a Croatian immigrant, explores Persian miniature art, embodying the spirit of Shahnameh in her paintings as well as reflecting on the evolving role of painting in contemporary life. Santa Monica-based Brazilian artist Melissa Meier is known for her 3D installations using found objects, and has created a pair of beautiful but strong rose bud shoes for the installation. Yasaman Mostajeran, a Newport Beach psychotherapist, elegantly revitalizes the Shahnameh's verses through therapeutic art, especially through calligraphic forms. Marty Ornish is a San Diego textile artist, and she addresses political and feminist issues with discarded materials, drawing inspiration for her displayed dress from Zoroastrian outfits in the late 18th century. Iranian _Pateh _embroidery artist Sara Soleimani Qashqai intricately weaves _Shahnameh_tales and its women into curtains, infusing childhood stories and playfulness into her delicate stitching. Soroor Sharifi, an Iranian jewelry designer, crafted a Phoenix-themed piece for this installation, which symbolizes resilience, rebirth, and women's strength, reflecting her distinctive aesthetic and global influences. Established in 2022, Persian Place in Carlsbad, California, actively promotes Persian art and culture through monthly workshops and celebratory events for adults and youth.
Learn more about Persian Place: https://persianplace.org/