Artist Statement

As a ceramic artist deeply connected to the rich craft traditions of Iran, my work is rooted in the intersection of personal experience, cultural heritage, and feminist ideology. Since immigrating to the United States, I have used my art as a medium to explore themes of home, identity, and the empowerment of women. My practice combines ceramics with other materials such as fiber and textiles, reflecting the fluidity of culture and identity in the context of my own lived experiences.

The inspiration for my work comes from the traditional crafts passed down through the women in my family, such as weaving, embroidery, and basketry. I am particularly drawn to the symbolic and aesthetic richness of Persian art, which I reinterpret through contemporary lenses. By merging these traditional techniques with ceramics, I create sculptural forms that represent the resilience and strength of women, as well as the complex stories of migration and transformation.

Maximalism plays a significant role in my artistic process, as it allows me to embrace ornamentation, pattern, and detail, all elements deeply embedded in Persian visual culture. This approach reflects not only the aesthetic values of my heritage but also a celebration of diversity and multiplicity. Each piece I create is a layered narrative, blending tradition with modernity and questioning the boundaries between craft, fine art, and cultural expression.

My work serves as a visual dialogue about the empowerment of women, challenging patriarchal norms and celebrating the beauty of choice. By combining different materials and scales, I aim to explore the hybridity of identity and the complexities of living between cultures. I see my art as a form of storytelling that speaks to the personal yet resonates on a universal level, inviting viewers to engage with both the intricate beauty and the underlying narratives of resilience, empowerment, and transformation.

As I continue to evolve as an artist, I am committed to pushing the boundaries of my medium and deepening my exploration of these themes. With the support of the Elizabeth Greenshields Grant, I will continue to develop my craft and create work that connects my cultural heritage with contemporary social issues, fostering dialogue and understanding through art.