Abbas Mehran presents his observations of a changing Iranian society in his exhibition of paintings, Moving On at Gallery 139 during the Adelaide Festival of Arts.

During a recent visit to his homeland, Iran Abbas Mehran observed that the male dominant society was beginning to acknowledge the strength and importance of women.

“Since Iranian women have become more aware of their equal rights, they are now emerging as active, knowledgeable, and an important part of society,” says Abbas Mehran. “I believe Iranian women have always been strong and brave, but it has now become more obvious.”

The colourful works on canvas and jute show the momentum of life and depict females in their various roles within an Iranian society that is now moving forward and looking to a new future. Abbas says, “I am happy and proud to have witnessed this change for women, but it is just the beginning.

Abbas Mehran’s style of painting is also moving on. For many years he has been working in the Iranian coffee house style of painting which tells a story through artwork. He now combines this style with realism, Persian miniature style paintings, and Persian carpet patterns.

Moving On exhibition also includes works that were created in response to Abbas’ time in China. His observations of a rapidly changing society are seen through his juxtaposition of the old and new elements of contemporary society.

Abbas Mehran has been painting for over 30 years. In 2003 he received first prize (painting) in the prestigious Waterhouse Natural History Art Prize and in 2008 he was a finalist in the Doug Moran Portrait Prize. During 2008 Abbas was invited to spend three months painting his project of peace, the environment, and children on the walls of caves in Dunhuang, China. In 2009 he was finalist for the Celeste International Art Prize in Berlin. Abbas was invited to exhibit as part of the 2009/2010 Animamix Biennial at the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei.
 

Media Contact Lynda Allen, EveCommunications
0403 759 729 or lynda.allen@evecommunications.com.au