At the Foundry Downtown in Dubai, Tehran-based Bavan Gallery presents an exhibition featuring two renowned Iranian artists: Nasser Bakhshi (b. 1983, Tabriz, Iran) and Roghayeh Najdi (b. 1982, Tabriz, Iran). The exhibition will be held from February 5 to March 5 in Gallery 3 at Foundry Downtown. This marks Bavan Gallery’s 5th exhibition in Dubai, showcasing its ongoing commitment to bringing contemporary Iranian art to an international audience.
Nasser Bakhshi: A Visionary Contemporary Painter
Nasser Bakhshi is a renowned contemporary artist whose work explores themes of memory, identity, and human emotion. Deeply influenced by his Iranian heritage and global artistic movements, his paintings blend abstraction with raw storytelling, creating thought-provoking compositions that transcend cultural boundaries. Through his masterful use of color, texture, and form, Bakhshi captures the complexity of personal and collective experiences.His work has been showcased in prestigious exhibitions worldwide, including in Iran, Turkey, Europe, and the United States. Recognised for his ability to merge tradition with modernity, Bakhshi’s paintings address socio-political narratives while pushing artistic boundaries. His signature style reflects resilience and transformation, resonating with audiences and collectors alike.
Currently, Bakhshi remains an influential figure in the international art scene, exhibiting his works globally and continuing to inspire emerging artists. His dedication to artistic innovation and cultural dialogue solidifies his place as a leading voice in contemporary painting.
Roghayeh Najdi: A Contemporary Painter Exploring Time, Identity and Emotion
Roghayeh Najdi is a distinguished contemporary artist known for her evocative paintings that explore themes of time, identity, and human emotion. With a background in traditional painting from Tabriz University and a degree in art research from Antwerp University, she has developed a distinctive artistic language that blends rich cultural influences with modern perspectives. Her work, exhibited internationally in Iran, Turkey, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium, the UAE, the U.S., and France, captivates audiences with its deep symbolism and striking compositions.Najdi’s signature technique involves transforming her subjects into negatives, stripping them of identity and detaching them from specific times or places. Flowers frequently appear in her work, symbolising hope, femininity, and the fleeting nature of life. Through her masterful use of color and form, she conveys profound emotional depth while addressing contemporary social issues, particularly those related to her homeland, Iran.In addition to her painting career, Najdi is actively engaged in museum management, archiving, and the preservation of art and historical objects. As one of the founders of the Archive Museum in Tabriz, she continues to contribute to the art world beyond her canvases, solidifying her influence both as an artist and a cultural advocate.
Press release from Bavan Gallery
Image: Nasser Bakshi. Untitled . 2024. Oil on canvas. 80 x 120. Image courtesy of the artist and Bevan Gallery
