Hamidreza Shafiei: The Importance of Middle Eastern Artists' International Presence

Manager of Vesta Color Hamidreza Shafiei stated: "Until twenty years ago, the developed world was unaware of the Middle East's tremendous and amazing creative potential, nor that incredibly creative contemporary artists reside here. Since 2006, international auctions have helped to bring this artistic splendor to the attention of a global audience."

IranArt : Manager of Vesta Color Hamidreza Shafiei stated: "Until twenty years ago, the developed world was unaware of the Middle East's tremendous and amazing creative potential, nor that incredibly creative contemporary artists reside here. Since 2006, international auctions have helped to bring this artistic splendor to the attention of a global audience."

He continued, saying that although recognition of Middle Eastern contemporary art has grown over the past 20 years among art enthusiasts worldwide, it still falls well short of its rightful place.

He declared: "Maybe first, the modernist artists from Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria gained prominence, and then the artists from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other countries quickly followed. However, one of the most important aspects is that Middle Eastern artists' work is properly recognized and continues to be presented in galleries, biennials, and art fairs around Europe, America, and, of course, the Far East, including China and Hong Kong."

Hamidreza Shafiei highlighted that these exhibitions need to be taken seriously because Middle Eastern artists are the modern Middle East's leaders.

He maintained that such a presence will deepen cross-cultural ties and further solidify the contemporary Middle East's place in the shadow of intercultural discourse. In addition, artists' attendance in prestigious global events, exhibitions, and gatherings can provide a platform for the sharing of knowledge and experiences, which in turn fosters artistic growth.

Hamid Reza Shafiei pointed out that expanding the art market and allowing regional artists' creations to be sold abroad is another great success in and of itself.

Manager of Vesta Color Hamidreza Shafiei announced: "Opening on April 20th is the 60th Venice Biennale, unquestionably one of the most significant worldwide stages for visual artists. Thankfully, the UAE, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Oman have all made their mark on the international scene up to this point. I hope that this procedure is rigorous, and that local governments will help by providing incentives to private galleries and artists so that they can participate in as many events as possible."