FARNOOSH SHAHROKHI

Memory and Presence

 

Multiculturalism and the increased visibility and appreciation of artistic creations from around the world, have brought a new range of sensibilities to western art. As an Iranian-Canadian woman who grew up in Iran, immigrated to and live in Canada, I am interested in exploring these intersecting worlds.

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I am also interested in identity, social norms and exceptions, cultural and religious practices, and political power in different societies. 

The main inspiration for my work comes from experience of living as woman in two different culture and societies. Women in Iran struggle to achieve their social freedom and rights, as government has restricted them from compulsory Hijab to death sentence for committing adultery or abortion. I want to be their voice through mostly digital media and paintings, as I like the juxtaposition of what is consider "high art" and "low art".

 

In my artworks, I investigate both memory and presence. I approach this concept through my memories of motifs from Persian architecture, rugs and mosaic tiles and express them in painting, historically the western language of art. Everyday life and ritual, the abstract and spiritual, and monochrome and minimal designs all come together to actualize my art pieces.

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Exhibition

·   UBC graduate exhibition, Double Space in Audain Art Centre 

·   Nowrouz Exhibition, Caroun Art Gallery, North Vancouver 

·   Spring group exhibition, Caroun Art Gallery, North Van 

·   Summer group exhibition, Caroun Art Gallery, North Van 

·   CPC Photography exhibition, Caroun Art Gallery, 

·   Prizes:Two selected works,CPC 3rd digital photo contest 

·   Immigration photo contest, Northshore multicultural society