About the exhibition, Maryam Heydarzadeh says: I have held numerous exhibitions since 2009. They are all known as ‘After That It’s All Regret.’
On why she chose this particular title: I got blind after a surgery at the age of just three and a half. That time a friend of mine bought me murals. I was blind. So I could never use it to paint anything. I carried that pain within my heart for many years.
I spent my childhood years regretting that I could never ever draw. For instance, I always had to go through the painful experience of watching children TV programs on which kids would have their drawings shown on the small screen. I always wanted to send my own drawings too, but couldn’t.
On how she began her painting career: I’m particularly fascinated by murals. I use murals and acrylics when painting. When I’m really into it, I can draw many paintings. In this latest exhibition some 30 paintings are on display. Reception has been great. I was especially excited to see Vice President Mohammad Baqer Nobakhat paying a visit to the gallery.
According to Heydarzadeh, the administration of President Hassan Rouhani is working round the clock to support the Iranian artists: President Rouhani pays special attention when it comes to supporting artists. This has become one of the main topics of discussions and policy in cabinet meetings, where members agree that more needs to be done to promote art. It’s welcome news for everyone. I’m delighted to see that the current government promotes art and tries to understand the artists and resolve their outstanding issues in different fields.
On the relationship between painting and poetry: There are many works of art where poetry is written on the painting or other piece of art. Likewise, art can inspire poetry. Most of my paintings are poetic and romantic. You could easily spot poetry in them. In both art forms, you receive something from it, usually some kind of emotion or an expression. That’s why I think painting and poetry are interconnected.
Heydarzadeh also insists that nature is one the key elements in her paintings as well: I mostly draw natural scenery in the autumn. For me, nature is always a mobile and transient element. I follow the school of realism with an emphasis on expressionism. Mostly, I like my paintings to be realist and crystal clear. This way they can easily connect with the audience. Colors are not strange elements for me. I can still remember the color of red since when I was just two years old.
On how she picks her colors: I ask my sister for some assistance. I tell her how to arrange the colors on the table. Then I start using them one by one. It is my hoping that more people will come and visit galleries like this. Not just mine, but every other gallery in the town. The thing is, not many people visit galleries these days. Perhaps, we could also use every little help from the press and the media to promote this important art.
The fifth edition of painting exhibition by Maryam Heydarzadeh is underway in Shokouh Gallery until Wednesday, October 11. The address is: No. 19, Amir Nouri Alley, North Salimi St., Andarzgou Blvd., Farmanieh.