Shirin Gallery is currently hosting “A Letter,” a solo exhibition by renowned Iranian artist Behrouz Zindashti. Known for his innovative approach
Shirin Gallery is currently hosting “A Letter,” a solo exhibition by renowned Iranian artist Behrouz Zindashti. Known for his innovative approach to the intersection of traditional Iranian calligraphy and contemporary art, Zindashti’s latest collection offers a fresh and thought-provoking exploration of the Persian alphabet, particularly the letter “Alef.”
Born in 1978 in Salmas, Iran, Zindashti’s academic journey began at the University of Tehran, where he earned a degree in Painting, followed by a Master’s in Handicrafts from Kashan University. His artistic practice is deeply rooted in his educational background, which also includes years of teaching at institutions like the University of Tehran and Sooreh University. A prominent member of the Institute for the Development of Contemporary Visual Arts and the Iranian Ceramic Artists Association, Zindashti’s work has been showcased in numerous domestic and international exhibitions and auctions since his first solo show in 2003.
In “A Letter,” Zindashti moves away from his previous, more familiar artistic methods, diving into a new approach to the form of calligraphy. Curator Kianoush Motaghedi describes the collection as a significant evolution in the artist’s practice, where the letter “Alef” takes center stage. Zindashti’s exploration of this letter, repeated in mirrored arrangements across the canvases, challenges traditional calligraphy and reinvents it in a minimalist, postmodern context. The repetition of “Alef,” a key element of Siah-Mashq (the Iranian practice of repetitive calligraphy), transforms into a modern and symbolic representation that invites viewers to engage with its layered meanings beyond its linguistic function.
Through his use of a limited color palette and focus on formal repetition, Zindashti merges the old with the new, evoking a sense of both refinement and liberation. The work shifts from rigid formalism to more improvisational compositions, breaking free from the constraints of tradition while still maintaining its essence. This series marks a bold step forward in Zindashti’s artistic journey, offering a sophisticated, intellectual experience that encourages reflection on the role of language, identity, and culture in contemporary Iranian art.
For art lovers and collectors, “A Letter” is an opportunity to witness the transformation of traditional forms into modern expressions. The exhibition not only showcases Zindashti’s technical skill but also highlights his ability to push boundaries in both aesthetic and conceptual terms.
