The exhibition of paintings and miniature works by Maryam Estaki titled "Between Two Worlds" is currently held at Kiman Gallery. This exhibition symbolically revisits Iranian myths and the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, and its works reflect on the hidden layers of psychology and anthropology related to the characters of this great literary work.
Artistic and Philosophical Implications of the Shahnameh
In a statement for this exhibition written by the artist, it is stated: "The Shahnameh of Ferdowsi has long been a part of my cultural memory and familiar narratives; stories that, accompanied by heroes, demons, journeys, and trials, tell the story of humanity and the hidden layers of the psyche beyond the narrative of bravery." Estaki, referencing the theories of Carl Gustav Jung, explores a world where heroes, demons, and journeys are metaphors for humanity's confrontation with conscious and unconscious realms and the quest for meaning.
Read more: Heavy rain in Mecca and the prayer of pilgrims at the Grand Mosque
Symbolic and Meaningful Works
The works in this exhibition, especially in the painting "Esfandiar; The Last Feast" and "Kavus; The Rise of the Shadow," provide new interpretations of the stories from the Shahnameh. In the painting "Esfandiar; The Last Feast," the artist addresses the inner and mystical aspects of the hero. This work shows that Esfandiar's feasts are more stages of growth and overcoming his inner desires than external battles.
In "Kavus; The Rise of the Shadow," Kavus is depicted as a tyrannical king flying into the sky. This work effectively illustrates the contrast between earthly life and his limitless aspirations. At the bottom of the painting, ordinary human life is in motion, while Kavus is alone at the top of the image, conquering the sky.
Estaki, using precise lines and brick patterns in the background, depicts a symbol of "Ruin Fortress" and the contrast between dark and light colors conveys a sense of tension and suspense in her works. This exhibition offers viewers an opportunity to delve into the psychological depths of the characters in the Shahnameh and observe new interpretations of this ancient work.
Read more: Performance of the Tehran Symphony Orchestra at Vahdat Hall · Publication of the novel work of Emad al-Kitab on the 90th anniversary of Bank Melli Iran
