Afarin Sajedi (born 1979) is a contemporary Iranian artist known for her distinctive and bold portraitures. A Tehran native, she has made a mark in the art world with her large-scale, hyper-realistic portraits of women, often imbued with intense emotion and surreal elements.
Sajedi’s artworks frequently delve into themes of womanhood, identity, emotion, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary society. The women in her paintings are usually depicted with exaggerated facial features, pale skin, and bright, vividly colored backgrounds or details. These striking contrasts often emphasize the depth of emotion or experience reflected in the subject’s eyes or posture.
While her technical approach can be likened to hyper-realism due to the meticulous detail and precision in her work, Sajedi’s inclusion of surreal and sometimes unsettling elements places her firmly in the neo-surrealist category. Her inspiration comes from various sources, including her personal experiences, Iranian culture, and global influences.
Afarin Sajedi’s style might remind one of other artists who play with a blend of realism and surrealism, like Dino Valls or Jenny Saville. However, Sajedi’s distinct cultural perspective, combined with her unique approach to her subjects, lends her work an original voice in the contemporary art scene.
To sum up, Afarin Sajedi’s paintings provide a profound exploration of human emotion and experience, blending technical prowess with evocative, surreal imagery. Her work serves as a powerful commentary on the complexities of identity, especially within the context of contemporary Iranian society.
Useful Links
https://afarinsajedi.com
