The mysticism of Persian Mythology explored at CAMA Gallery London in solo show of contemporary Iranian artist Ali Nedaei
Mystical and mesmerising paintings influenced by Persian mythology make up the second show at CAMA Gallery London. Following the success of their inaugural exhibition, CAMA have announced their second show as a solo show of Iranian contemporary artist Ali Nedaei, considered by renowned Iranian art critic Javid Ramezani as one of the most influential painters in Iran.
Nedaei’s work explores Persian mythological subjects in both human and animal form,
presenting classical themes in a modern and dynamic way. Using the unconventional method of marker pens on canvases, he creates fluid and dreamlike figures that float hauntingly across the canvas.
Previously, Nadaei’s work was generally small in size. However, for this show, he has wisely adapted and presented his work on a larger scale. By drawing on large canvases, Nadaei has the space and freedom to project spontaneity, elegance and drama, while still maintaining a high quality of craftsmanship and a tone of sensuality which defines his work.
Nadaei’s Battle of Lion and Myth series presents a modern twist on the traditional Persian epic poem Shahnameh. The artist presents the horse as an independent sign. In a specific scene, Nedaei uses the horse’s mythical character to form the tragedy of the hero. This tragedy is a witness to the vastness of civilisation’s history which is emphasized in the dynamic wavy lines, and the freedom of the artist’s staging.
Through his loyalty to the realistic and romantic form, Nadaei presents mankind as his most significant subject, indicating that his artistic concern is human and history.
To create his artwork, Nadaei brings several styles together, that simultaneously draw on ancient art history and also incorporate aspects of modernity and modern culture. Nedaei believes that contemporary humans share common themes with those from the ancient past, and this belief is reflected by the way in which he combines several styles in his artwork.
Javid Ramezani says of Nedaei’s work:
“In today’s expression, myth is a word carrying a kind of message. Myth is a kind of relation, it is not an idea nor an object. In fact, everything in our time is a myth and could carry a broader concept than its basic one. This mythical depth manifests in the form of visual or traditional techniques and a set of signs which appear in Nedaei’s painting.”
Ali Nedaei was born in 1957, Abadan, Iran. He began his career in painting in 1983 and has since obtained a Masters Degree in painting from Tehran Art University. He is a member of the Society of Iranian Painting, among many other related groups. Nedaei is represented exclusively by CAMA Gallery, and this marks his first solo show in the UK.
CAMA Gallery are the pioneering market leaders in Modern & Contemporary Iranian art and aim to be a leading force in the growth and expansion of the art industry in Iran and the Middle East. CAMA showcases art of all genres in physical galleries and online, offering contemporary artists exposure and global recognition. CAMA Gallery are the only gallery in London to exhibit exclusively Iranian art.
Ali Nedaei’s exhibition will open with a private view on Monday 2 July 2018 from 6-10pm. A press afternoon will also take place from 12-4pm on Friday 29 June 2018.
