Details of my latest three-piece artwork collection themed Remembrance, exhibited at the IIS Annual Exhibition from November 1 to 11, 2024 at Iranian Artists Forum, Tehran.
Last Week I attended a photo shooting session with some of my latest paper-cut artworks. Thanks to dear Sophia for such nice shots.
The Illustration Week exhibition, titled Remembrance, ran from November 1 to 11, 2024, at the Iranian Artists Forum in Tehran. Organized by the Iranian Illustrator Society, the exhibition showcased the work of independent artist members of the society.
The theme, Remembrance, invited us illustrators to explore the concepts of memory and nostalgia. This year, for the first time, the exhibition also featured new media artworks and hosted a series of expert talks.
My artwork, a three-piece paper-cut illustration framed with a mirrored background, was displayed in the main hall. It was a wonderful experience to be part of this event and connect with many of my fellow artists.
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Last Thursday, October 17th, I hosted a papier-mâché workshop at the SAAD Gallery, sharing the experience with enthusiasts and students eager to transform their two-dimensional ideas into three-dimensional forms. Watching participants with no prior artistic experience bring 2D characters to life was both fascinating and challenging.
We began by sketching ideas on paper, followed by building the structure and main framework with wire. Next, we filled the volumes with disposable materials like newspaper, paper, and styrofoam, and then coated the surface with glue and papier-mâché paper. The technique I taught involved layering the skeleton with strips of paper and glue, which differs slightly from traditional papier-mâché methods.
Finally, participants painted the covered surfaces, presenting their completed works at the end. Although conducting papier-mâché workshops in a short time can be demanding, the participants’ satisfaction and the final results made it a truly rewarding experience for me.
On September 12th, I hosted two exciting lino printing workshops at Sad Gallery, where a dozen art enthusiasts came together to explore this unique and tactile printmaking technique. It was incredible to see how each participant brought their creativity to life by designing and printing their own custom tote bags.
We began with sketching ideas on paper, which were then transferred onto lino sheets using tracing paper. Once the designs were in place, I guided the participants through the process of carving their designs into the lino with chisels. For many, it was their first time working with such tools, but with some practice, everyone got the hang of it and started to see their ideas take shape.
After the carving was complete, the next step was applying ink to the lino sheets using a sponge, which added a wonderful texture to the prints. Finally, we used the lino stamps to transfer the designs onto the tote bags, and it was amazing to witness the excitement as everyone saw their own creations come to life on the fabric.
Lino printing is a relief printmaking technique where an image is carved into a linoleum sheet. The raised (uncarved) areas are then inked and pressed onto a surface, like paper or fabric, creating a bold and textured print. It’s a wonderful medium that allows for both intricate designs and bold, graphic compositions.
On Friday, August 30, I had the pleasure of hosting a fun and interactive workshop at Adapa Gallery, where kids explored the art of character creation by painting on wooden dolls. These raw wooden figures, resembling large chess pawns, provided the perfect canvas for the young participants to unleash their creativity.
Each child chose a character they wanted to bring to life. I worked with them to refine their ideas, helping them imagine the features of their characters and sketch them onto the wooden dolls. From there, we dove into the exciting process of color mixing, as I guided them in selecting and preparing the perfect shades for their designs. The children painted different parts of the dolls themselves, adding personal touches to their creations.
The workshop was filled with fun, laughter, and beautiful moments as the kids discovered a new skill—character-making through painting. They not only learned how to turn their imaginative ideas into tangible forms but also gained confidence in expressing their creativity through hands-on art.
It was a joy to watch the children bring their characters to life and see their excitement throughout the process. I’m proud to have been a part of their creative journey, and I look forward to more workshops that inspire young mind
Date: Friday, August 23, 2024
Instructor: Niloufar Ataeifar
Fee: 8,000,000 IRR
Location: Adapa Gallery, Tehran
Join my creative workshop designed for kids and teenagers, where we’ll explore the art of character design by painting on raw wooden dolls. These dolls, which resemble large chess pawns, will be provided by the gallery. Each participant will have the opportunity to transform their wooden figure into a unique character with their own custom design and personality.
Throughout the workshop, I’ll guide participants through the entire process, helping them bring their creative visions to life. We’ll start with sketching ideas on paper and then move on to painting the wooden dolls, developing both character-making and painting skills along the way. No prior experience is needed.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own pencils, paper, and other drawing materials. To register or get more information, please contact Adapa Gallery on Telegram at @Adapa_Gallery.
On the afternoon of August 16, I had the pleasure of leading a paper-cut introduction workshop at Adapa Gallery in Tehran. This hands-on session was an exciting dive into the world of paper cutting, where participants learned the fundamentals of working with scalpels and cardboard to create intricate, layered portraits.
In three hours, each participant was guided through the process of designing and crafting their own paper-cut portrait. We began by exploring the basic principles of using a scalpel for precise cuts, then moved on to layering the cut pieces using two-sided tape. By carefully stacking the layers, participants were able to create a dynamic piece of art that, when framed and backlit, allowed light to pass through at different intensities. This technique beautifully simulates outlines and contrast, bringing each portrait to life with varying hues and depths.
On Friday August 16, I had the honor of leading another lino printing workshop at Sad Art Gallery in Tehran that turned out to be a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. With around 10 participants we had a journey from concept to crafting a sustainable applicable atrpiece, transforming ideas into beautifully printed tote bags.
The process was both challenging and pleasing. We started with simple sketches, which participants then transferred on their own linoleum sheets. The next step was carving out their designs using tools like scalples and chisels. Once the lino stamps were ready, participants added paint and brought their designs to life on tote bags with small sponges.
What stood out to me most was the diversity of the group. Many of the participants came from non-artistic fields, yet they approached the artistic process with such passion and creativity. It was fascinating to watch them uncover their hidden talents and express themselves in ways they hadn’t before.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to guide such a diverse group through this creative process at Sad Art Gallery. Watching them bring their artistic visions to life was a truly rewarding experience.
Last Friday, I had the chance to host a Lino printing workshop at Sad Art Gallery in Tehran, bringing together an incredible group of participants, many of whom came from backgrounds like engineering and medicine. It was truly inspiring to see how these individuals, often more accustomed to analytical mindsets, embraced the creative process with enthusiasm and curiosity.
During the workshop, we explored every step of the Lino printing process. Participants began by sketching their designs, which were then transferred on linoleum sheets. From there, they carved their designs by small chisels, transforming simple sketches into intricate stamps. With their unique stamps in hand, participants applied fabric paint and carefully printed their creations onto tote bags.
The final results were truly amazing. Each tote bag was the reflection of the individual’s style and creativity, with designs ranging from abstract patterns to more detailed illustrations. I was especially proud to see how everyone found their own way to translate their ideas into tangible art. This workshop at Sad Art Gallery was a reminder that creativity knows no boundaries, and it was a privilege for me to lead such talented individuals in discovering their artistic potentials.