On the opening day, artworks worth 125 million tomans (mt) were sold to art collectors and enthusiasts. The director of gallery, Lili Golestan says most of the works are sold by young artists, adding that some 257 of them are on display until August 16.
They are works by A-list artists such as Ali Taraghijah, Nasser Ovissi, Faramarz Pilaram, Reza Mafi, Farah Ossouli, Parviz Kalantari, Iran Doroudi, Manouchehr Motabar, Siavash Kasrai, and Mohammad Ehsai. They start from a price of tag of 9mt by Farah Ossouli and end with 80mt by Parviz Kalantari. Other works are priced between 25mt to 45mt.
On display, there are also statues by prominent Iranian sculptors like Jazeh Tabatabai, Mohammad-Hossein Emad, Reza Gharehbaghi, and others, with prices ranging from 2.5mt to 8mt.
The most expensive works go to Aydin Aghdashloo and Faramarz Pilaram, both at a whopping price of 90mt. Right around of the corner and close to these expensive pieces, a photograph taken by the late filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami is also hanging from the wall – priced at 1.5mt.
One of the most important features of this year’s exhibition is the presence of artists from provincial areas, particularly from Isfahan. They are all part of a cultural-artistic group called Lotus. There are minimalist as well as figurative works to be had – all priced between 1.5mt to 4mt.
Launched in 1992, the exhibition is the oldest visual arts event of the private sector. This year it showcases works by 257 artworks, each presenting one piece. It has been customary in the history of the exhibition that when an artist’s piece is sold another artwork by the same artist quickly replaces it. So, every day visitors can see new works on display.
Since its founding, the event has offered quality works and has focused on the economics of art. Over a quarter century, it has been able to introduce new buyers to the art community.
The exhibit will close August 16. The gallery is located at No. 34, Kamasai St., Darrus neighborhood.