Armin Amirian: Surreal Scapes

About

Through his arranged scenes set amongst the grand religious architecture of Isfahan, to derelict houses and barren landscapes that are interspersed with anachronistic figures, animals and found objects, Amirian’s Surreal Scapes comment on nationhood, history, culture, and conflict and implicitly touch on his own relationship with his homeland.

Armin Amirian (b.1995) is a self-taught artist and photographer from Isfahan. Citing the socio-political climate of Iran in the 1990s and 2000s as well as diverse media he experimented with in his early years as significant sources of inspiration to his artistic practice, Amirian’s multi-disciplinary approach pays homage to his experiences growing up in Iran, as well as his varied skill as an artist. Growing up in the ancient Iranian capital Isfahan, rich with canonical and opulent architectural forms and strong cultural significance within the Islamic world, Amirian joined a long line of prominent artists and cultural figures from the city. Inspired by those who came before him and their tumultuous plight for greater freedoms in his country, Armirian creates surreal scapes that interpret and transform the collective experiences of his people through photographic print. 

The works selected in this viewing room are characterised by their staged or manipulated quality. Amirian arranges found objects, barren landscapes, religious buildings, anachronistic figures and livestock in his photography to create surreal and sometimes provocative scenes that are rooted in Iranian history and culture. Whether he introduces livestock into derelict buildings, or places anachronistic figures in traditional locales, by arranging, splicing, transmuting, and altering the arrangement of the scenes he captures, Amirian’s visions and interpretation of his surroundings are translated into quixotic and compelling images.

Armin Amirian: Surreal Scapes runs from November 23 to December 20 and is available to view on our Artsy Viewing Room page.