Iran has one of the richest art heritages in the world and is home to a number of art traditions and skills including painting, pottery, calligraphy, architecture, weaving, metalworking and sculpture. Iranian art, or Persian art, behold the most unique and oldest techniques in each art discipline which makes it one of the most sought after artistic countries.

Iranian miniature paintings, ceramics, sculptures, book art and metal work are in huge demand worldwide due to the intricate detailing and innovative techniques used to create the artwork. Iran has a rich heritage and art history and there are six key milestones which make the legacy of Iranian art really powerful.

Six milestones to know the history and importance of Persian art and culture.

The URUK Period – Pottery and Ceramic Vessels

The Uruk period dates back around 4000 to 3100 BC, which was based in southern Mesopotamia, also known as ancient Iraq. The settlement was home to various farmers and hunters who established their lives beside rivers. Syria, Turkey,

Syria, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq, which were called with different names at that time, saw a major part of the Uruk period. Along with mesmerizing architecture and artistic mosaics, the Uruk period saw a growth in pottery making and proto- writing.

An important colony of the Uruk period, Susa had the most influential protowriting skills along with pottery and cylinder seals. The skills and details of the artists are praiseworthy because the tiny errors or asymmetry in the creations show that all were handmade. What makes it incredible is at a time where neither machinery nor technology exists, the magnitude of artistry and talent was superior.

Another interesting factor that played an important role in the Uruk period was keeping the records of goods and workers through pictographs. Although they were intended for management purpose, the pictographs are an example of exquisite artwork.

The Early Iron Age – Artistry on Metals

The Early Iron Age took place around 900 – 600 BC period and this era saw the advent of metal artistry. The most common metal used to carve out intricate and detailed sculptures was bronze. The sculptures made out of bronze were called Luristan Bronzes and they were found in many locations in west- central Iran by archaeologists.

The use of metal at a large scale was sculpted into a number of art pieces including weapons, tools, horse- fittings, vessels, and ornaments. The tools used to carve and hammer the pieces were quite simple but the techniques were innovative. Intricate carvings over the metallic artwork were manual and time-consuming. This era saw the formation of representing animals, most common of them being goats or sheep with large horns in a number of different forms and styles.

The Islamic Golden Age

This era emerged during the 9^th and 10^th centuries. The Sasanian Empire ruled in 651 which came to an end after the “Muslim conquest of Persia”, or the “Arab conquest”. It also led to the decline of the Zoroastrian religion in Iran. After this era came to an end, artists in the region showed exponential growth and potential, which visualized the 9^th century as the golden period. Locations such as Greater Iran and eastern parts saw the increasing importance of the Turkish people and this led to a cultural Turko- Persian tradition.

Iran saw the advent of two important dynasties which were the Samanid dynasty and the Seljuq dynasty, both of which enhanced the importance of Persian art during their time. Pottery, ceramics, metal work and book painting especially rose in demand. During the Samanid dynasty, a Sunni empire ruled over many parts including Afghanistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan. This era specialized in epigraphic pottery which was an earthenware vessel with lettering involving proverbs and blessings inscribed on it, which was used to serve food. The lettering was in Kufi script with black slip on the white base.

The Seljuq dynasty which ruled during the 10^th century was responsible for bewildering innovations in materials and techniques. Materials such as minai ware used on a white background along with enameled figures, fritware and a silicon-based paste were introduced and hence they replaced clay.

The discipline of metal work and sculpting during Islamic Art period also took to new innovations. Along with the hammering of the metal to create detailed designs, artists during Iranian art period also added precious metal inlays to highlight the art piece. Book paintings also shot to fame from Iran to Iraq which contained animalistic figures to portray fidelity, treachery, and courage. Book paintings also led to the widespread of Persian calligraphy which became one of the most sought after disciplines.

The Mongol under the Leadership of Genghis Khan

This era formed many dynasties throughout the 13^th century due to the division of the Empire among the sons of Genghis Khan. Each and every dynasty contributed towards art and helped it grow which led to the Golden Age of Persian painting. The main disciplines which were widespread at Persian art time were calligraphy, illustration, and paintings which represented the culture of Mongols. However, there were criticisms against the rulers of displaying the Persians as Mongols at that time.

The Safavids – High Point for Literature and Architecture

This era also contributed a lot to the development and spreading of a number of art disciplines such as weaving, miniature paintings, and ceramic artistry. Persian carpets and rugs were in huge demand due to the representation of the tribe’s culture and excellent artisanship. That is when the art of weaving got a boost.

Book illustrations and Persian miniature paintings were practiced thoroughly and they often displayed narration and thinking skills. The artists also used a lot of human figures to narrate their stories. Even though Persian art never sought to completely forbid the human figure, miniature paintings contained them as the central plot due to its privacy. New types of vessels and ceramic objects were practiced such as goblets, long- necked bottle, and plates. The new shape of the vessel which was invented was a flask shaped vessel with a very small neck and flattened body on one side and rounded body on the other.

The Qajar Art

The Qajar dynasty which ruled from 1781 to 1925 had a great impact on the empire’s art, architecture and art forms. Paintings and large murals were an integral part of the Qajar art. The period of relative peace along with the rule of Agha Muhammad Khan and his descendants gave a major burst to the artistic expression. The paintings and murals portrayed historical scenes and revelry, which was specifically created to be put up in palaces and coffee houses. Special arched tops on the paintings were attached to fit them into walls.

The style and portrayal of paintings create an assumption of the Qajar dynasty having its roots attached with the Safavid Empire. The portrayal of inanimate objects and human beings were depicted opposite to their nature. While human beings were decidedly idealized and placed with standardized features, inanimate objects were shown as real objects. This was corrected by the rising discipline of photography in the 19^th century.

Iranian Art – A Charter for Artistry, Awesomeness, and Aliveness

All the disciplines and their sincere follow-ups make Iran a rich and vibrant land with the most interesting tradition and culture. Not only traditional art, but modern Iranian art is also rising and forming a platform for itself, which is equally praiseworthy. Iranian art or Persian art has evolved and changed faces in all disciplines due to a huge number of dynasties. The elegant style of artistic skills, for example, weaving has left a great impact on the world with their finished and teaching skills.

Persian Art is effectively contributing to the world with its oldest and innovative techniques, which is forming a huge demand in today’s world and has also remains as a reference point for its artistry and awesomeness!

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When we think of graffiti, the words slanderous, defiling and rubbish may come to mind.  A lot of street art has an obvious, or sometimes very subtle, anti-establishment hint in it. Street Art from the Islamic Republic of Iran is by no means different, it has become part of city’s landscape, delivering strong messages symbolically to everyone around.

The powerful messages of peace, love, and hope in a country torn apart by internal conflicts are represented by Iranian street artists through their art, and mostly these works grow in all endless direction, both metaphorically, conceptually and physically.

Filmmakers Zeinab Tabrizy and Paliz Khoshdel decided to start the initiative through their film Mutiny of Colours, to give the world the perspective from the Street Artists view.

Street Art in Iran is viewed very much the same way the rest of the world views Graffiti Artists.  The public and government believe that they are out to destroy property and make a nuisance of themselves, that their works reflect a Satanic and evil expression.

Iranians are not spinsters on expressing their feelings on all aspects of political, social and cultural aspects of their life.  The Iran Islamic Revolution in 1979, as well as the Iran Green Movement of 2009, saw many Iranians marching the streets, voicing their opinions and plastering the walls of Iran with their effectual messages.  This, according to the Street Artists, is similar to how they are communicating their thoughts and vision while maintaining their way less violent and more influential.

By using the medium of art they feel they can reach a greater audience and influence a wider band of people.

Through the movie, the Directors have approached various Street Artists, who has stronger reasoning behind their beautiful and powerful depiction of their messages.

Five artists were identified as the main contributors to the film and while they hide their faces behind masks, when being interviewed, in fear of being arrested, they are resolute in bringing their compelling messages alive through their skill. Each of these five artists has a very different message and a manner in which they express it on the walls and buildings of Iran.

One of the main contributors is CK1, who, by using Iranian literature shows his anti-war stance.  Omet draws on his childhood, stating that because he was born in the time of Iranian upheaval, he wants to reach out to the youth in the community.  Brothers, Icy and Sot, are all about peace and friendship.  And finally Lady Green reveals the synergy between government-sanctioned murals, over times of war and discord, to her graffiti-style work.

Many famous artists have supported the film’s passion and purposes, such as Faith47, Isaac Cordal and Blu, to name but a few.

The Mutiny of Colours documentary relies heavily on public contributions and while it is an on-going work, starting off in 2012, they are still looking for more funding.

Street art has proven itself to be a true expressive art form. It is not an inferior form of political outcry nor is it the indifferent rebellion of a disaffected youth. Street art thinks, feels, and evokes thought and emotions in the people that view it with an open mind.

Take a look at their compelling trailer and consider a small donation.  The cause and consequences could be huge for the Iranian population.

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Sharjah, the third largest UAE’s district, exudes passion and excitement, especially in the art scene.

As a visitor, the beauty within the walls of Sharjah will amaze you and keep you coming back for more.  Your soul will be touched by the charisma and charm of all that is Sharjah, the now Cultural Capital of the Arab world.

Whether you’re an enthusiastic art lover or merely a quiet appreciating bystander, you will not be able to resist the richness of all that Sharjah has to offer.  With over twenty museums, you’re spoilt for choice, but don’t let the walls of a museum stop your cultural experience.

The Sharjah Biennial introduces one of the finest collections of contemporary art, where all the beauty this event can enchant every art lover from across the world.  Allow Sharjah, one of the first emirate’s to celebrate art biennale, to bedazzle you.

Maraya Art Centre has become one of the most talked art organizations.  A non-profit art entity that has given birth to many projects, but one that stands out is their newest project called Jedariya.  Jedariya is meant to incentivize community through powerful art movements. Jedariya promotes the youth to get involved in art in any form and on other levels require them to raise awareness for vital causes by actively participating.

Under Jedariya’s leadership, the MYNEANDYOURS (Mine and yours) project was born, which is all about beautifying the city with magnificent street art. Street artists are commissioned to decorate, with their own personal style, the streets of Sharjah.

Adventurous and bright colors adorn the very walls and buildings of most of Sharjah, bringing the city to life in a most majestic manner.  The artists, through their mediums, hope to mimic life in UAE, so that all the residents and visitors can savor the taste

Marwan Shakarchi was one of the first artists behind the Myneandyours project.  Many, from around the world, have viewed his famous marshmallowy clouds with crosses for eyes

The playful and colourful array of clouds splashed across a field of wide diagonal stripes has become a mural of positive thinking for all the public.  Shakarchi wanted to inspire the viewer to look up to the skies, brighten their day with strong colors and believe they can dream big.

And who wouldn’t?

The playful nature of the childlike clouds would inspire anyone to dream big dreams.

His choice of medium was huge-scale stencils and rainbow colored spray paint.  High up on a secured platform, he took 10 days, working for 12-hour stints to finally complete the magnificent masterpiece.  The masterpiece scales in at 78ft x 91ft and cannot be missed on the building wall.

Art has always transcended the bridges of language and the message of the street art of Myneandyours hits home no matter where you come from in the world.

Stepping out onto the sidewalk of life, powerful messages of hope, love, and faith are displayed.  Unlike the confines of an art museum, catering to a select few who are privileged enough to view the history, street art caters to the masses, allowing all that can afford a trip to the United Arab Emirates, a view of this modern and perhaps a significant step in art practice in the Middle East

Street Art is Powerful. The meanings and messages it leaves behind are thought bending.

No matter your religion, your beliefs or your upbringing, to view such raw and viral expressions on such open surfaces, is truly a blessing.   What better way to bring the world goodwill messages than through the fearless, gallant and personal language of art.

It is hoped that Sharjah will continue to honour the beauty of street art and in turn allow our youth to bring their messages to the world.

After all, it is the youth that should be leading our world forward.  Often overlooked, most times dismissed, graffiti or street artists, don’t get their pound of flesh in the art arena.  Via Maraya Art Centre, the Jedariya project and Myneandyours initiative, they can express freely without offending.

Often overlooked, most times dismissed, graffiti or street artists, don’t get their pound of flesh in the art arena.  Via Maraya Art Centre, the Jedariya project and Myneandyours initiative, they can express freely without offending.

This is only the beginning and we look forward to new artistic voices to come forth into Sharjah and UAE, to send strong messages from the sidewalk to the world at large

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The United Arab Emirates’ colorful art scene today proves that this region in the Middle East does not only thrive in its usual stereotypes, but also encouraged talents who try to capture and express the culture, personal struggles, and the carousels of human experience.

For three decades now, UAE has been investing on its arts and in return, it has been reaping wonderful outcomes. The great success of Abu Dhabi Art Fair every November and Art Dubai every March shows how UAE is anchoring it’s love for art. In addition, branches of Christie’s and Sotheby’s have been the platform for art auctions in the region.

Then, in the recent years, UAE art scene has caught the world’s attention for tremendous breakthroughs such as the establishment of Sharjah Biennial, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Heritage and culture are both part of what UAE is made of and known for. Emiratis try their best to preserve these while staying open to the ever-evolving art world.

[quote_colored name=”” icon_quote=”no”]UAE art scene has indeed gone through a wonderful journey of sowing seeds of creativity across poetry, music, theatre, literature, fine art – both ancient and contemporary[/quote_colored]

Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank top in promoting artistry

In 1993, Sharjah hosted the Sharjah Biennial which was a big part in the city’s aspiration to be the cultural heart of UAE. Three major venues for arts have been giving the perfect avenue to Emiratis and international artists to showcase their works and visions – the Sharjah Art Museum, the Heritage Area, and the Sharjah National Theater.

The existence of these venues has been a massive help to those who create art and those who seek artistry.Besides these institutions, there are other dynamic alternative art spaces in Sharjah such as Maraya Art Center. It is dedicated to uphold community creativity above everything else. Paving the way in order for art to reach more people.

Dubai on the other hand strives to keep the balance between being a vibrant metropolis and a center for global culture and art. Wondering how alive the art scene in the Dubai city is? Well, visit in the month of March. You’ll get to experience the numerous art fest and events: Art week featuring SIKKA Art Fair, Design Days Dubai, Art Dubai, Dubai Art Season, Middle East Comic Con, and the Gulf Film Festival. Other studios which are less commercial by nature do not fail to uplift the creative spirits of local artists. They do not only provide a space for artists but ensure the cross-cultural exchange and other beneficial activities that expand the awareness and passions of many.

Abu Dhabi has created Saadiyat Island – a cultural district devoted to culture and art – is a live canvas for culture, design and art drawing regional and international artists with exhibitions, productions and performances. Museum Louvre is located here to house the aesthetic expressions of different civilisations and cultures, from the most ancient to the most contemporary.

UAE’ love for Poetry

UAE does not only fulfil what the eyes call beautiful, the region tries to promote and exhibit the richness of its literature. There have been bold initiatives and projects that aim to foster literature that is only available in Arabic language. With this Kalima and Tarjem are specifically geared on translating literature in Arabic language. Imagine how these written words have survived catastrophes and conflicts. Imagine how they have been passed on from generation to the next. Imagine how it can impact someone from the future.

In March, Abu Dhabi becomes a hub for bookworms for the annual Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is being held. To give honor to promising writers and translators, Sheikh Zayed Book Award has been given to scholars, publishers, and scribblers who are contributing in the literary and cultural growth of the region.

[quote_colored name=”” icon_quote=”no”]UAE also breathes and conceives beautiful Arabic poetry. For Emiratis, poetry is still regarded as one of the highest forms of expression in literature.[/quote_colored]

Despite modernisation, the love for the verses is undeniably present and powerful. It is deeply rooted – that’s why nabati poetry means “the voice of the people.” This reminds me of the beautiful lines from poet Mary Oliver, “poetry captures the silky part of our beings.” And because the verses are being looked up to, TV shows such as “Poet of the Million” and “The Prince of Poets” has gained so much mainstream popularity. This is an amazing thing knowing that in other parts of the world, poetry and poets have been struggling to stay alive. Both shows are being guided by the Abu Dhabi Poetry Academy and steered by TCA Abu Dhabi.

UAE’s love for Music and Theatre

Music is another ancient creative form which has kept UAE as cultural and colorful as it is today. The Abu Dhabi Festival is a big event that gathers musicians, performers, and artists from the localities and the international scene. This festival is made possible by a non-profit organization called ADMAF (Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation) was founded in 1996 and it has been a great catalyst in bringing culture and creativity closer to the communities and the people.

[quote_colored name=”” icon_quote=”no”]Just like most of the countries and regions of the world, storytelling is also very close to the heart of UAE. It is believed that other art forms have sprung from it – theatre and performing arts.[/quote_colored]

The Courtyard Playhouse is a lovely pod for theatre lovers in Dubai. Known as Dubai’s first and only dedicated,purpose-designed improv’ theatre dedicated to nurturing local talent and developing the improv’ scene, Playhouse has full schedule of workshops for adults, teens and children as well as a schools programme, and are reputed to screen National Theatre Live and MET Opera productions on a monthly basis.

Desert Monologues is one of their diverse courses designed stage performers and acting enthusiasts where you can work with like-minded and talented individuals for eight weeks and towards the end you will get a chance to perform onstage.

TCA Abu Dhabi makes sure that there is harmony in keeping the culture and tradition of the region while staying open to new influences from other countries. With this, they organize and host events that allow the fusion of the Classics and the contemporary. They also take responsibility in keeping the younger generation enriched by the beauty of their tradition through music and the arts (in diverse forms). To art enthusiasts, this is amazing. It’s like being fully present in the now but being able to dangle your senses to that glorious past lived by your ancestors – passed on to you from generation to generation.

UAE’s love for Films

From October to December, film festivals are being held – Abu Dhabi Film Festival (October-November) and Dubai International Film Festival (December). The region offers an array of top documentaries and movies. Abu Dhabi Film Commission also promotes the region as an awesome film location regionally and internationally. There are also initiatives that uphold the film making industry. This gives more opportunities to even budding filmmakers.

All these simply show how UAE’s love for art is undeniable. It also goes to show that creativity has been breathing through the region. Art pulls together the gems of the past and the surprises of today. The beautiful thing which keeps UAE art alive is how the governments and non-governmental organizations support art projects big and small. A great example of how it should work – hand in hand, harmoniously.

Seven monarchies. The cooperation between the governments and the Creative Emiratis. One pulsating passionate heart for the arts and you must try this wonderful hub of creativity!

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Part of Dubai Design Week is an annual series, Iconic Cities, which was dedicated this year to Beirut. A great experience is delivered in a powerful manner.

Brilliant Beirut, curated by Rana Salam, was one of the exhibition’s standout achievements. Her work documents the evolution of design in the Lebanese capital over the past seven decades, telling the story of Beirut as a continual canvas for innovative and talented designers.

Beirut is a diverse civilization rooted in the cultures of the great ancient artists and designers from the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Ottoman Turks, to even far-flung cultures like the French. Its complexity, conflicts, and glamorous glory all contribute to the beauty and vibrancy of Beirut’s modern Art and Culture scene.

Salam shows this to the viewer through an installation that mimics the feeling of walking down the streets of “The Paris of the East”. Though that is its nickname, through each designer’s contribution to this stunning city, it is made apparent that Beirut has its own unique beauty.

[quote_colored name=”” icon_quote=”no”]Beirut does not imitate other cities. Beirut is not a replica. It is a special combination of people, lifestyles and architecture that result in an authentic city with a unique modern identity. Beirut is convinced it can be to be the most advanced, trendy and cutting edge city. Without copying any other city. Because Beirut is ambitious, says architect Karim Bekdache [/quote_colored]

Brilliant Beirut touches on almost every avenue of design, giving the viewer a look at the city’s contributions to architecture, interiors, graphics, and product design beginning in the 1950s and moving into the present. Salam also explores the processes by which this art is created, from education to implementation.

Brilliant Beirut touches on almost every avenue of design, giving the viewer a look at the city’s contributions to architecture, interiors, graphics, and product design beginning in the 1950s and moving into the present. Salam also explores the processes by which this art is created, from education to implementation.

The daughter of the renown architect Assem Salam, and a highly respected package and graphic designer herself, Rana has been passionate about Beirut’s evolution through design since childhood. The artist shares her experience of the city beginning with its masterful architecture, from the clean lines of Schayer’s Carlton Hotel, to the pop artesque circle-dot façade of Victor Bisharat’s Koujak-Jaber, into the 20^th century’s most futuristic nightclub feature, the BO18’s militaristic retracting roof designed by Bernard Khoury in 1998.

The exhibition moves into graphic design, showing special attention to how changes in the nation’s social, political, and wartime dynamics effected shifts in style. She does the same with fashion and product design, with the ultimate focus being the creation of a definition of Lebanese style. Examples included furniture, decorative and functional objects, interior innovation, product and business branding, lighting, and signage.

Salam does not end with the present, but has the viewer look into the future through advances in design education and by including modern works in progress, like the construction of the Ashti Foundation building by architect David Adjaye. This part of the show is captioned “Beirut Today: Evolution, not revolution.” Salams choice of capitalization in that caption captures the feeling of the installation.

Of this work the artist says, “There is a need to change the world’s perception of the Middle East, and to reflect it in a fresh and engagingly positive light,’ she says. ‘what better medium to use than the power of design?”

Not only is ‘Brilliant Beirut’ an example of thoughtful curation, it is also a testament to the talent and fresh perspective of one of the world’s great current designers. Salam herself is contributing to the boom in product and graphic design in Beirut while infusing the flavour and culture of her treasured city in international projects as well.

Thank you Dubai Design Week for featuring this amazing series of beauty and redemption!

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