Female artists create Persian-inspired artworks in Mingei exhibit

Unique Persian art by women artists currently fills an exhibition at Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park. “Persian Place Epic Expressions: Shahnameh by Seven Female Artists” displays special objects selected by Persian Place, a nonprofit organization highlighting Persian art. The organization commissioned seven international female artists to create work inspired by the “Shahnameh,” a 10th or 11th-century epic poem by Abul Qasem Ferdowsi depicting the heroic tales of Persian kings. This historic poem recognizes the pivotal role of Iranian women as influential nurturers and warriors in their communities.

Shirin Aghdaie hangs one of her mirror pieces in the exhibit. (Photos courtesy of Sadry Hedayat)

The seven artists featured are Shirin Aghdaie, Sasha Furlan, Melissa Meier, Yasaman Mostajeran, Marty Ornish, Sara Soleimani Qashqai, and Soroor Sharifi. Each used their own medium to bring the insight and beauty of “Shahnameh” to local viewers.

Sara Soleimani Qashqai is an Iranian Pateh (traditional needlework art) embroidery artist. She wove the role of women into two curtains hung in the installation. The curtain on the right demonstrates the stories of women in “Shahnameh” and compares them with modern women of today in Iranian society. The curtain on the left depicts mythical events as well as historical events from the “Shahnameh.”

Included in the lineup is local textile designer Marty Ornish, who uses her voice on political, environmental and feminist issues. She designed and sewed a dress inspired by 18th century Zoroastrian fashion from Kerman and Yazd provinces. During that time period, the Zoraster Community was barred from buying long lengths of cloth. Consequently, they sewed remnants together to make garments. Ornish’s modern garment features embroidered fabric strips with zigzag patterns symbolizing the harmony between sky and earth.

Tehran University graduate Shirin Aghdaie captured the essence of “Shahnameh” with more than 15 mirror works hanging from the ceiling in the exhibition. Sasha Furlan, a Croatian immigrant, created Persian miniature and glass paintings inspired by Shahnameh. A Newport Beach psychotherapist, Yasaman Mostajeran, created calligraphy art using passages from “Shahnameh” emphasizing the role of women. Iranian jewelry designer Soroor Sharifi created a phoenix-themed piece for this installation. Her phoenix pays homage to the mythical creatures on the pages of “Shahnameh” which symbolize resilience and rebirth.

1. The curtain, calligraphy and hanging phoenix are part of the Mingei exhibit.

2. A model will wear the rosebud outfit at the public reception on March 18.

3. Sasha Furlan painted golden clouds on the glass window into the exhibit.

4. Local artist Marty Ornish created an outfit inspired by 18th century tunic and trousers worn by Zoroastrians.

5. Melissa Meier with the crown, dress and shoes she made of rosebuds from Iran.

6. Soroor Sharifi created a phoenix for the exhibit, a mythical creature featured in the “Shahnameh.”

7. In the “Shahnameh,” women served as decision makers, politicians and leaders, as highlighted in calligraphy art from Yasaman Mostajeran.”

Using rosebuds from Kashan in the Isfahan province of central Iran gifted to her by Persian Place, Brazilian artist Melissa Meier, who is known for her 3D installations, constructed a rosebud outfit which gives off a wonderful fragrance. During the upcoming reception, a model will wear and walk in this incredible outfit. It is designed for women to walk in love and courage in their hearts.

The display will be at the Mingei until May 31. The museum is hosting an installation reception on Monday, March 18 from 5-7 p.m. that is free and open to the public. Registration is at the door. The exhibition coincides with the Persian New Year, Nowruz. March is also the month of women and the seven female artists will talk about each of their pieces at the reception. For more information visit: https://mingei.org.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned couture milliner based in Alpine, California. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.

Upcoming Events

A Splendid Decennium: Victorian to Vanguard

An exhibit featuring the art of fiber artist Mary Ornish at the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House (gaslampfoundation.org/visit) and the Villa Montezuma Museum (villamontezumamuseum.org) through April 27. Check websites for days and hours.

“Live your Dream” awards

Soroptimist International of San Diego is hosting a fashion show by Gretchen Productions at Sycuan Casino on Saturday, March 9. For information: 619-670-9880.

Sip and Style Secondhand

Embrace sustainability and come and fill a bag with clothes while you sip an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage at the Kairoa Brewing Company on 4601 Park Blvd starting at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 10. For tickets: bit.ly/3SQm1D3

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