The latest collection of clay sculptures by young artist Hamed Rashtian is currently on view at Tehran’s Khak Art Gallery.
Titled ‘Reverie’, the series comprises 10 sculptures made of “a hybrid material, composed of different kinds of clay and semi-transparent epoxy, a class of reactive polymer,” Honaronline quoted Rashtian as saying.
“I am inspired by Middle Eastern style of pottery and architecture, which are concerned with volume,” he said, of his works.
The common solid surface of pitchers and jugs are turned “into a visual reverie of scenes, like crowded bazaars and streets of the Middle East region.”
Replying to a query on why he chose ‘reverie’ for the title, he said: “Due to the special transparent material used in the artworks, they are able to transfer the light set inside them, creating a fanciful look, similar to a dream.”
According to him, the collection is the result of long-time research on the common architecture of the Mideast region, and from India to Morocco. “I’ve combined the styles of different countries, coming up with a unique mix.”
He also underlined the practicality of clay in Islamic and ancient art and architecture.
Born in Tehran, Rashtian,32, graduated from Shahid Beheshti University in mathematics in 2002, but later he switched to sculpting and attended workshops held by one of the masters in the field, Parviz Tanavoli, on bronze sculpture techniques.
He is a member of the Association of Iranian Sculptors and the winner of the Honorary Award at the 5th Biannual Sculpture Exhibition of Tehran (held from Nov. 2007-Jan. 2008).
The clay collection will be on show until June 25 at the gallery, located at No. 1, Jila Alley, Basiri St., Shariati Avenue.
