A Lifetime of Iranian Sculpture in America

A large collection of works by Parviz Tanavoli, an Iranian artist, has been displayed in Boston, USA. This exhibition showcases a diverse array of his works, including sculptures, paintings, jewelry, and research works. Parviz Tanavoli, born in 1937 in Tehran, is a sculptor, painter, and researcher, and is considered one of the most famous contemporary artists in Iran. He is referred to as the father of modern sculpture in Iran, having gained international recognition with his famous sculpture 'Nothing'. This is Tanavoli's first extensive exhibition in an American museum. He last held an exhibition in the U.S. several years before the Iranian Revolution. Approximately 200 works from various periods of his life are on display, including many pieces from the 'Nothing', 'Farhad the Mountain Digger', and 'Lovers' series. Additionally, a collection of his paintings and sketches, several books and research works, as well as a diverse collection of jewelry and ornaments combining traditional and modern designs are included. Tanavoli states that this is one of the best exhibitions he has ever had and he is very satisfied with the space and execution. He believes it is a suitable time for this exhibition to show another face of Iran to the American people: 'They should know that art in Iran is not dead and continues, and this is an example of that.' The exhibition was designed by Shiva Balaghi, a researcher and professor of Middle Eastern art history, and Lisa Fishman, the director of the Davis Museum. Ms. Fishman mentioned that due to U.S. sanctions against Iran, they were unable to bring some of Tanavoli's works, including his carpets, to this exhibition. Tanavoli believes that cultural exchange should be maintained and should not be overshadowed by politics: 'The people of America are thirsty for Iranian culture and art but have been deprived of it for a long time.' This exhibition is held at the Davis Museum at Wellesley College, supported by Maryam Homayoun Eisler. Ms. Homayoun was a political science student at Wellesley College years ago. She expressed her fatigue from hearing bad news about Iran and decided to take meaningful action herself. She believes that Iranian art has a historical legacy and wants to introduce it to the world. She asserts that the university is a suitable place for such projects because students are the leaders of the next generation and will shape the future.