Introducing "The Persepolis Project"

The fiery destruction of Persepolis as a result of a drunken rage or a strategic geo-political move by Macedonian conquerors will be debated by his historians for ages. But the ages still whisper as you stand at the gates of this ancient city. Despite it’s torching in 330 BCE Once wandering it’s streets once still senses it’s unique place in Persian history as the the seat of government for the Achaemenian kings and a center for reception and ceremonial festivities. On first visit there I spent hours mesmerized by the carvings and the artistry of my ancestors. Those voices heard as faint echo’s from stone inspired the idea of creating the Perspolis Project.  I aim to amplify the whispers of those  amazing carvings - the Human-Headed Winged Lion, colossal bull head, Persian soldiers who are shown to be bringing tribute and gifts to the Persian king as a token of their loyalty - all are shown in these series mixed with a modern twist and using different media such as Farsi calligraphy, ink, paper, Acrylic, etc on wood panels. Dimensions vary. I invite you to view some of the art images HERE. The project is an ongoing project so stay tuned for some new images soon.

Bucket Feet Event at Soho House Chicago

During Art week at Soho House Chicago, another fun event was held.  We were given a pair of white shoes to paint on! Thanks to Bucketfeet, A Chicago based Company which was launched in 2011 after two strangers met in Argentina - an artist and a backpacker -. A pair of hand-drawn shoes inspired the idea of the company and showed the power of art bringing people together. Soho house members were provided a pair of Bucketfeet shoes to design. Amazing music, great atmosphere, lots of creative people, that is just a recipe to create something fun. And this is the result! The shapes are all from Persian (Islamic) designs and the Farsi calligraphy is a Rumi poem which translates into "When I found love I became immortal". Art week at Soho House Chicago has been such a fun and amazing week with lots of different and fun activities which brings all art lovers together.

Art week at Soho House Chicago

It's no secret that Soho House is the place for arts and artists but this week has been something really special. It's the art week at Soho House which means there is an interesting event on each day. This past Wednesday, January 21st, Damien Hirst's piece was unveiled. The piece spells "Chicago" with real butterflies and it is placed in the Allis Restaurant located on the main floor of the building. Hirst was born in 1965. He emerged as a leading figure in the young British Artists movement in the late 80s. He has shocked and surprised the art world with his unusual works. While not everyone was enthralled with his work, his biggest supporter was Charles Saatchi, advertising titan and art collector. Saatchi funded Damien Hirst's first works and also started collecting Hirst's pieces. But whilst his works, has been praised by many art critics throughout the years, he has been also condemned for killing animals in order to create his art. The Artist was landed in a row with RSPCA while exhibiting his work "In and out of love"  after it was revealed that more than 9,000 butterflies died during the 23 weeks of this exhibit in Tate back in 2012. It's understandable that there might be a bit of mixed feelings about his works and the medium that he uses but this should not stop you to go and see one of his pieces up close at Soho House Chicago.

http://www.damienhirst.com