See you at Art Basel Miami 2015

  Art Basel stages the world's premier modern and contemporary art fairs.  It is staged annually in Basel, Miami Beach, and Hong Kong. A driving force in supporting the role that galleries play in nurturing the careers of their artists, Art Basel frequently expands its platforms to include the newest developments in the visual arts.  Being able to visit Art Basel Miami has always been on top of my list and now It's with pleasure to announce that one of my pieces will be shown at Spectrum Miami during Art Basel 2015. Spectrum is a juried, contemporary art fair in the heart of Midtown Miami featuring an international slate of artists and galleries. It’s where contemporary meets extraordinary. My piece was chosen to be part of spectrum as part of a competition though Artavita online Magazine, which is part of the Worldwide Art Book company in Santa Barbara, CA. What better way to see Miami for the first time than being there doing Art Basel, see some amazing art pieces from all over the world, mingle with friends, connect with new ones. Mark your calendars and come look for my piece at Spectrum Miami tent, from 2-6 December 2015 located at 1700 NE 2nd ave, Miami - World Wide Art/Artavita, booth 520.

The title of this piece is a quote by Rumi "Close your eyes, fall in love, stay there" and it is 12x12 inches, mixed media on wood panel. Below is a brief statement on my art pieces.

"When I Found Love, I Became Immortal"-Rumi (13 CE)

In my pieces I merge traditional Iranian art forms with a contemporary sensibility. In combining Farsi calligraphy and Islamic architectural designs with mixed media (including resin and gold leaf) and bold lines and framing, I try to affirm the enduring aesthetic of a culture that is too often represented through the limited lenses of war and political turmoil. The meticulous composition of these works share the laconic beauty of Rumi's poetry, which ultimately works to create an emotionally resonant homage to tradition in the frenetic modern world.

Nostalgic memories of my beloved Iran remind me of who I am, and fortify my sense of cultural pride in a land that all too often depicts a most disconcerting and often polar-opposite reflection of my cherished motherland.

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.

Pop-up art exhibit in downtown Saugatuck MI - last weekend of August 2015

As we say goodbye to another beautiful summer, what better way to celebrate last weekend of August than viewing some Iranian (Persian) artwork by a proud Saugatuck resident.  I will be having a pop-up store in the heart of downtown Saugatuck, MI during last weekend of August. So before you start your Labour Day weekend, come pass by and have a look at some of the works which are available for purchase as well, enjoy some sunshine, have some amazing coffee at the lovely local coffee shop next door, indulge in some great dinner/drinks restaurants around this beautiful town. The pop-up store is located at 149 Hoffman street, Saugatuck, MI 49453 . It is next to the famous Tuck's The Christmas Shop and next door to Uncommon Coffee Store. You won't miss it's yellow color located in front of Wally's Bar and Grill! So mark your calendars for Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August 2015. Hope to see you all there.