Parviz Tanavoli

Parviz Tanavoli is one of the most influential and pioneering artists of the Middle East. An artist–fabricator, teacher and collector, he was born in 1937 and lives and works between Iran and Canada. Tanavoli is a founder member of the Saqqakhaneh School (a school of art that derives inspiration from Iranian folk art and culture), a school that has been described as a 'spiritual Pop Art' and is now considered the inspiration for progressive modern Iranian art. His key work is the calligraphic figure of Heech (Nothingness), a recurring theme in his sculptural repertory which contains reference to the human figure, evident both in the upright sculptural forms and their titles.

The exhibition at Austin/Desmond Fine Art, his first solo show in Britain since 1960, distinguishes him as one of the finest draughtsmen of his generation. The works on display feature over thirty–five pieces including ceramics, fibreglass and bronze sculptures, paired with contemporary drawings, emphasising his abiding and joyful love for Persian architecture, culture and poetry.

Parviz Tanavoli – Poet In Love

21 September – 29 October 2011
Monday – Friday 10:30 – 17:30
Saturdays 11:00 – 14:30

Austin/Desmond Fine Art
Pied Bull Yard
68/69 Great Russell Street
London WC1B 3BN

In conjunction with the exhibition, there will be a lecture and panel discussion by Parviz Tanavoli with a most distinguished panel as follows:

David Galloway – Art Critic and Independent Curator, former Chief Curator of the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art

Jessica Morgan – The Daskalopoulos Curator, International Art, Tate Gallery

Venetia Porter – Curator Department of the Middle East, British Museum

Thursday 22nd September 18:45

BP Lecture Theatre
British Museum
Great Russell Street
London WC1B 3DG

FREE

Panel Discussion on 22nd September is now FULL

Austin/Desmond Fine Art, The British Museum, and the Iran Heritage Foundation