The use of mosaics in Iranian architecture dates back to several centuries ago. Many ancient Iranian buildings remain to this day, and plenty of them are decorated using bricks and colorful mosaics.
Inspired by ancient Iranian art, the works of Davar Youseffi, contemporary painter and mosaic artist, beautify the city of Tehran. Most of the works by the artists are street mosaic art, the first of which came to life in Tehran’s Ketabi Square.
Nearly 20 years ago, the Organization of Tehran Beautification announced a public call for organizing urban spaces and invited artists to present their ideas. That was when Youseffi first proposed using mosaics in urban murals, ISNA reported.
He prefers to carry out his work in his own workshop and later assemble the parts like puzzle pieces on street walls. Putting up works on walls without advance planning, he believes, “does not yield the desired quality.”
Not Maintained
The artist expressed concerns that once completed, it is unfortunate that murals are not maintained. “Although the upkeep is not difficult, and mosaics may only require a simple wash every now and then, still several of the works are subject to negligence.”
He stressed that urban art work must be aesthetically pleasing to viewers. “Even if a sculpture for instance, projects a certain concept, what attracts viewers at first glance is the aesthetic form. Although conceptual works might be suitable for spaces and city squares with special names, yet the aesthetic aspects in design must not be ignored.”
Unfortunately, scaffoldings provided for street artists on sets “aren’t standard or secure enough and threaten artists’ safety.”
