2010-09-04

-What artist are you following with interest?

Among young Iranian artist, the sculptures of Mona Paad (1074, Tehran) are among my favorites. Besides their appearances, they conduct contemporary mystical messages. They are poetic, rooted in the mystical poetry of poets such as Rumi. Mona is part of that generation of artists that is often referred to as “Children of the Revolution”, born astride the revolution of 1979. The revolution and the Iran-Iraq War have virtually stolen their childhood and adolescence, making those years of their lives quite difficult. Through the efforts of some of their parents, they have learned to work with what was available to them privately.

-What work would you like to have and why?

Her “Axe” acts as metaphor that transforms an axe into a bird as well as a number of her fish series, which depict fish and combination of objects. Mona has a unique ability to breathe life into forms of her sculptures.

-How do you find art in today’s Iran?

Today is not unusual to find some of the most talented musicians, photographers, artists, and film makers of the same generation as Mona in Iran. Beyond all the restrictions and prohibitions, the essence and impact of the message of their art is more visible than it has ever been before.