Art has the remarkable ability to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, preserving cultural roots while embracing contemporary forms of expression. Solmaz Tohidloo, an artist represented by Eclectic Gallery, exemplifies this artistic journey. In this blog post, we delve into her world, her inspirations, and her unique approach to mixed media art. See the interview below.
What initially sparked your interest in working with mixed media to create art, and at what age did you start experimenting with this medium?
My works are paintings, acrylic on canvas. I create the initial designs of my paintings using digital tools and then transfer the design onto the canvas, making any necessary adjustments. After finalizing the initial design, I paint with acrylics. The process of combining patterns and generating new ideas digitally has sparked a significant amount of creativity while also saving time, which has drawn me to this technique. I have been working with this method for approximately 7 years.
Your artwork depicts intricately detailed portraits of women in traditional Persian clothes. Do you draw inspiration from everyday life and the people you interact with? If so, how do you translate those experiences into your art?
I infuse history into the clothing and patterns on the faces. It may be argued that the attire of today's Iranian women differs from this depiction, as modern women wear contemporary clothing. However, Iranian culture is incredibly rich, and clothing styles and designs have varied across different eras. I consistently explore and attempt to blend motifs and jewelry, crafting modern amalgamations rather than adhering strictly to traditional combinations. This approach prevents monotony and ensures that applying the same motifs directly to my work doesn't become dull and repetitive for viewers. I create new compositions from these adornments, gems, and calligraphy.
Can you share a story of a specific painting that was directly inspired by a meaningful personal event or encounter, particularly in the context of your detailed portraits of women and the words behind each paintings?
One of my paintings is titled 'Anahita.' Anahita is the name of one of the Aryan goddesses and the daughter of Ahuramazda and Spandarmaz. She is described as a beautiful, tall, and courageous goddess. Anahita is the angel responsible for water (the goddess of water), rain, abundance, blessings, fertility, marriage, love, motherhood, birth, victory, and the star Venus (the planet Venus). This angel symbolizes the purity and perfection of an Iranian woman. In Iranian mythology, Anahita is considered the source of all the world's waters, making her associated with symbols of fertility, healing, and wisdom. Over the last three millennia, the god of rain and rain itself have held a special place in beliefs, and Anahita was one of the most significant and popular Aryan and Mazdasena goddesses in ancient Iran. In the beliefs of ancient Iranians, she was the goddess of water, the guardian angel of springs and rain, symbolizing fertility, love, and friendship. In the beliefs of Iranians, women, childbirth, prosperity, and power have found profound meaning intertwined with her.
How did you discover your preferred medium and technique for creating these unique mixed media portraits, and what drew you to incorporate words into your artwork?
My university thesis focused on the 'Battle of Gods and Demons in Ancient Iran.' During that time, I conducted in-depth research on Iran's history from a visual perspective. This research continued to shape my artistic journey. I aimed to present history in a unique manner. With a deep passion for figurative painting, particularly featuring women, I conceived the idea of portraying modern women while infusing elements of identity and history into my artwork.
My approach allows viewers to encounter a modern image of a woman while simultaneously uncovering the historical and cultural layers within the work. I firmly believe that history will forever remain intertwined with us, especially in the context of Iran's incredibly rich art heritage. My mission was to represent this heritage in a more contemporary and accessible manner.
Can you discuss the evolution or development of themes in your art over the course of your artistic career, especially in the context of embracing your culture through your portrayals of women in traditional Persian clothing?
Before adopting this technique, my artistic focus involved creating simple figures within dark, confined spaces, employing a limited color palette. However, as time progressed, I felt compelled to infuse my works with brighter colors, intricate patterns, and heightened complexity. Initially, my patterns remained uncomplicated, but over time, I began incorporating Persian patterns and calligraphy into my creations.
Are there any artists or art movements that have influenced the themes you choose to explore in your mixed media artwork?
I pioneered this technique for the first time in Iran. Subsequently, numerous photographers embraced this style as digital art. Unfortunately, this surge in popularity led to numerous imitations and copies. However, what sets my work apart is my ability to capture the essence of this style with real faces.
How do you track and measure your progress and growth as an artist, both personally and professionally, particularly in your journey of creating detailed portraits with mixed media?
In my opinion, every artist can gauge the progress of their work through dedicated effort and practice. When I first embarked on this figurative style, my portraits lacked the desired finesse. It was only through persistent practice that I was able to attain the level of precision and harmony evident in my works.
Can you discuss any experiences where audience engagement has led to collaborations or opportunities for your art career, especially in relation to the themes and cultural elements in your work?
Perhaps with some limitations, but for the most part, I engage in research and discover combinations on my own. Throughout the design process, I continually make adjustments until I achieve the ideal combination.
How do you see exhibitions as a platform for engaging in dialogues and discussions about your work and its themes, especially when it comes to the integration of words into your portraits?
Certainly, hosting an exhibition is immensely beneficial for any artist. It greatly contributes to the evolution of an artist's work, fosters interaction with the audience, and exposes the artist to diverse perspectives beyond their own. Exhibitions offer a wealth of opportunities to witness how a single work can be interpreted in numerous ways, often inspiring the artist with fresh and compelling ideas.
Many of my art enthusiasts have expressed that when they view my works, it feels as though Iranian history and art have become an integral part of their very being, deeply ingrained in their skin and soul.
Thank you for your time. Finally, do you have any final thoughts or advice for emerging artists or art enthusiasts who may be inspired by your unique approach to mixed media artwork and the cultural significance it holds in your pieces?
Thank you for your good questions.
While ideas and inspiration are valuable, outright copying of others' works is not advisable. Rather than investing time in duplicating someone else's creations, it's more worthwhile to dedicate your efforts to nurturing your own creativity. This approach is bound to yield greater success in your artistic endeavors.
Solmaz Tohidloo's art is a mesmerizing blend of tradition and modernity, where the rich tapestry of Iranian culture comes to life on canvas. Her mastery of mixed media, the intricate details of her portraits, and her commitment to preserving the essence of her heritage make her a truly remarkable artist.
To experience the captivating world of Solmaz Tohidloo's art, we invite you to visit Eclectic Gallery or meet us in person at 16 Newman Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1PB, UK. For inquiries and further information, please don't hesitate to contact us at info@eclecticgallery.co.uk.
Solmaz Tohidloo's journey serves as an inspiration to emerging artists and a testament to the power of art in bridging the past and the present. As we celebrate her unique approach to mixed media art, we also celebrate the enduring cultural significance that her pieces hold.
Septiembre 27, 2023
