Iranian artist Arghavan Khosravi
In our ongoing online series, renowned art consultant Maria-Theresia Mathisen profiles rising contemporary artists to watch in 2021. Here, she speaks to New York-based Iranian artist Arghavan Khosravi about the power of visual metaphors, juxtaposing imagery and how her work reflects on her experiences of growing up in Iran
Maria-Theresia Mathisen
Arghavan Khosravi?s work is not only visually compelling but also loaded with socio-political commentary. I discovered her work in late 2019, a few months before the pandemic, on Instagram and was immediately taken by it. Bright colours and smooth skin are juxtaposed with uncanny elements such as ankle bonds, bombs, fragments of sculptures, shattered structures, ropes and keys. There are recurring symbols for censorship, such as locks, masks and bonds, reflecting the artist’s experience of growing up in Iran. Follow LUX on Instagram: luxthemagazine
Over time, I noticed that her compositions are becoming increasingly complex, and her paintings more and more sculptural. Arghavan is very ambitious and curious, constantly developing her practice, as if she is trying to solve a problem, or perhaps find a solution to some of Iran?s, or even the world?s problems.
To me, Arghavan?s work feels extremely important right now as it tackles human rights issues with a particular focus on the oppression of women in autocratic systems.
Arghavan Khosravi, The Key, 2021. Courtesy the artist and Rachel Uffner G...