Understanding Iran Through Contemporary Art
Different Sames: New Perspectives in Contemporary Iranian Art is a relevant new book that seeks to explore Iranian culture and the contemporary art movement starting in the late 19th century. It explores both an artistic and socio-political timeline of events in Iran’s history – from the 1960′s at the heyday of the modern art movement, when art was only accessible to the most privileged classes, to the rejection of all modern art and forward thinking artists in 1979 as the Islamic Republic took power.
Different Sames follows the path of contemporary art in Iran all the way up to present day where we see young artists recording biographies of themselves and their country through artistic means and using art as a drawing board and discussion forum for the creation of the future they aim for. The book also serves, it seems, as something of an analysis of the motivations, desires and culture of the young generation in Iran as well as an A-Z of the works of over 100 contemporary Iranian artists.
Not only is this book taking a unique and relatable approach to Iranian history, it seems to be a great reference tool. I think that understanding the art and art history of a culture gives a truly honest glimpse into the lives and minds of its citizens. For example, when we view art or listen to music of our parents generation, we certainly feel a closeness and deeper understanding of what their lives were like at that time. Art is often the only thing with the ability to successfully breach cultural, language and generational boundaries. In this way, Different Sames could not be more relevant at a time where we need to understand all we can about Iran’s history, present and future.
For a full book review and more information about the book, visit Wallpaper.
