Shahyad Tower...our white tower of freedom..

This is one of the buildings that probably doesn't need introduction. Shayad tower is and will always be the symbol of Iran. I have a special bond to this tower as I grew up hearing the stories and seeing photos of how this beautiful tower was built and till this day, I find it so inspiring to see how much love and energy my dad put into this project when he was only in his 20's. Whenever I see Shahyad Tower in a movie, a photo or in a video clip, unconsciously I feel proud to know most of the amazing people who made their vision become the symbol of our country; my amazing dad, Iraj Haghighi alongside the inspiring Rouhollah Nikkhessal, Hossein Amanat, Manouchehr Iranpour and many many more. Your art will always be in the heart of Iran and Iranians.It's a shame to see how this stunning white tower is not being taken care of like it deserves.

Below interview is for all the Farsi speakers - sorry no English subtitles :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLr9fbebfpw

Also below are some photos of back when the tower was being built. You can see a young Iraj Haghighi on the site :) We are proud of you dad, everyday ...

For more information you may also go to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azadi_Tower

New piece - Make it Rain

Like any other Iranian, I've always been obsessed by our poetry. It's part of our culture. We grow up knowing our poets and their poems.  One of my all time favorites, Rumi (Molana) has always been an inspiration for me as I'm sure for many others. This painting is another example of how his art inspired me. The words in the painting below are in Farsi ; "Freedom", "Happiness", "Hope", "Belief" and "Forgiveness".  Below painting was inspired by one of my favorite Rumi quotes: “Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”

Acrylic on canvas - 36"x48"