What to expect during "Shortcut to the Silk Road" Exhibit

As we get closer to end of the year, everyone is busy with the last minute shopping, family gatherings etc. For me it is a different kind of preparation though; getting the final plans and sketches done for the "Shortcut to the Silk Road" exhibition in Saugatuck MI this January.  This Exhibition brings to life the most celebrated trade route in history, named for the treasured fabric that attracted traders from all over the world. The Silk Road stretched from the far reaches of China through the cities and empires of Central Asia and the Middle East. Extending 4,000 miles, the Silk Road derives its name from the lucrative trade in Chinese silk carried out along its length. Trade goods were not the only things travelers carried with them; artistic methods and motifs, styles of music, religions, languages and literature, philosophies and political ideologies were all transported along with silks, spices and porcelains. Rather than the luxury items that might pass from one set of hands to another, more often it was these more intangible cultural products that left the most indelible impressions.

In the spirit of this exhibit, I have used some of the merchants which have been significant to the silk road in some of the new pieces which will be on view during "Shortcut To The Silk Road" exhibit; Tea and Saffron are some main mediums in some pieces. Stay tuned for some images to come as we get closer to the opening date. Join us on January 22nd 2016 at Saugatuck Center for the Arts from 5:30-7:30 pm located on 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, MI.

ARTIST SARVIN HAGHIGHI’S INSTALLATION, “WHISPERING WALLS” EXPLORES REALITY OF LIVING IN CHICAGO AS IRANIAN EXPATRIATE

Whispering Walls

September 11 – November 1, 2015

Grand Opening - October 9, 2015

Storefronts along South Halsted & 18th Streets in Pilsen (1822-1843 South Halsted)

In the spring of 2015, Iranian artist Sarvin Haghighi exhibited an installation of mixed media at the Evanston Arts Center, titled, “Whispering Walls”. The evocative piece explored the duality of being of Iranian descent, living in Chicago. The installation has now been chosen to be expanded upon as part of ShowPODS’ fall program – coming to life via seven select storefronts on Halsted Street. The enhanced installation, presented as part of The Chicago Arts District’s Second Fridays, and included in Chicago Artists Month (CAM), runs September 11 – November 1, 2015.

“My intention with this installation is to share part of Persian / Iranian culture, which I’ve found many Americans have limited knowledge of”, said Haghighi. “With this installation, I hope to close the gap between the two cultures. And I’m thrilled this work will enjoy a greater audience now that it will be on display in the Halsted Street storefronts, and included in CAM programming.”

The enhanced installation speaks to a hybrid reality, born of an Iranian-US experience – anchored in the artist’s new home, Chicago. As such, the work is grounded in traditional Iranian customs, yet bears a distinct overlay of US/Chicago culture.  The exhibit will come to life via seven storefronts along South Halsted and 18th Streets, in Pilsen. It will be comprised of mixed media, including: paintings, installations, sculpture and be very experiential.

About Second Fridays

The Chicago Arts District, formerly known as PilsenEast, encompasses several contiguous blocks of lofts, studios and retail spaces for artists, gallerists, and creative individuals. Every 2nd Friday of the month, the galleries of the Chicago Arts District invite the public to view new and exciting exhibitions. The public is invited to explore the 30+ creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at South Halsted and 18th Streets as they showcase an exciting display of art and artists from Chicago and beyond. This unique art community opens its doors, free of charge, and lets viewers get up close and personal with the art and artists. 

About Chicago Artist Month (CAM)

CAM is an initiative of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events that showcases the work of Chicago’s independent artists and arts organizations. As a platform for independently-produced events and programs in all disciplines, CAM highlights creative activity in Chicago neighborhoods; encourages tourism and small business development; fosters collaboration and opportunities for creative expression and learning.

In search of The Perfect Studio space, could this be it?!

Well, I have been looking around for a long long time. Been moving studio spaces few times and still looking for that one inspiring space..I think I finally have found it! Fingers crossed! From Ravenswood to Bridgeport I have been looking around at any artist studio space possible, been added to all the waiting lists for the high in demand locations in Chicago and been in contact with the best realtors. It has been a long process searching for that perfect location for my art creation. Some spaces were located in great neighborhoods but were really overpriced, some where in not the best areas and not with that much traffic for art enthusiasts, some where too small, some were in bad condition, ... you name it I have seen it all!

Few weeks back, I found a space at Bridgeport Art Centre in Chicago. The building is great and they are also adding a Ceramic section to the building. Full of amazing artists with access to the Gallery and small museum in the building. There is a down side to this though;  the space is in a basement level and there are NO natural lights what so ever...I know they say some artists become more creative in dark spaces but I don't think I could be in that category just yet...

I have now hopefully found the perfect location. It will be revealed soon along with invitations to a very exclusive list of invitees to attend for the opening. This space has its own curator and gallery built in and the team working behind it are one of the most amazing artists I have seen in Chicago so far so it is really exciting and really hoping I can get into this space as soon as possible.  Hopefully I can settle down in this space for a while and I have a feeling that might be the case. Stay tuned. There are some many amazing news coming up. Working on two major projects at the moment. Also some great great news coming up for me. As it seems 2015 is getting better and better already.

Will reveal the news once 100% confirmed...It is going to be an amazing chapter for Sarvin Haghighi and her art. Wait for it Chicago, you are going to hear my name more and more and more ...