A captivating collection that breathes life into the timeless tales and enchanting verses of Persian poetry. Each piece invites you to journey through rich narratives, vibrant colors, and deep emotions, celebrating the profound connections between art and storytelling. Experience the beauty of culture and creativity woven together, as whispers of the past resonate in every brushstroke.
Title: Whispers of Happiness
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 76 cm x 183 cm
This artwork draws inspiration from Mawlana Jalaluddin Balkhi’s enchanting poetry “Shadi” (translated as “Joy”), which celebrates happiness and bliss. Through vibrant colors and whimsical imagery, I depict floating creatures such as a unicorn, a bird delivering golden eggs, and a flying turtle. These elements symbolize the ultimate happiness that arises from deep gratitude, freedom, and liberation from the confines of the mind. The lively composition invites viewers to embrace a sense of wonder and to recognize that true joy comes from within—a state of being where boundaries dissolve, allowing the spirit to soar.
Title: No Religion
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 122 cm x 76 cm
This artwork draws inspiration from Hafez’s poetry “Vaezeen ke in jelveh dar mehrab va manbar mikonand,” which critiques the superficiality of religious practices. In “No Religion,” I depict a camel smoking, its eyes reflecting a state of intoxication and duality. The camel, burdened by a mosque on its hump, symbolizes the conflict between a deeply religious background and a life of indulgence—gambling, drinking, and womanizing.
Through this piece, I explore the tension between societal expectations and personal desires, highlighting how one can be trapped in a cycle of contradictions. The vibrant colors and expressive forms invite viewers to contemplate the essence of true spirituality, free from the confines of dogma.
Title: Morning’s Call
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 76 cm x 76 cm
This artwork, titled “Morning’s Call,” is a vibrant reflection of the themes found in Omar Khayyam’s poetry, particularly his piece “The Morning Rooster.” Inspired by the imagery of the rooster heralding the dawn, this piece captures the essence of awakening and the transient nature of life.
Through bold colors and dynamic forms, I aim to convey the beauty of each new beginning and the fleeting moments that define our existence. Just as the rooster’s crow serves as a reminder to embrace the day ahead, this artwork invites viewers to reflect on the importance of living fully in the present and cherishing the joys that come with each sunrise.
Title: Dance of the Intoxicated Ones (Mastan Salamat Mikonand)
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 102 cm x 153 cm
This artwork is inspired by the poetry of Mawlana Jalaluddin Balkhi, particularly his evocative piece “Mastan Salamat Mikonand,” which translates to “The Intoxicated Ones Are at Peace.” Drawing from the profound themes of love, intoxication, and spiritual awakening found in his verses, this piece captures the essence of surrendering to the divine and embracing the joy of existence.
Through vibrant colors and flowing forms, the artwork invites viewers to experience the ecstatic state of being that Mawlana so beautifully describes, reminding us of the transformative power of love and connection to the universe.
Title: Awakening the Spirit of Women Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size: 102 cm x 153 cm
This artwork pays homage to the powerful women of the Shahnameh by Ferdowsi, celebrating figures like Gord Afarin, Roudabeh, and Tahmineh. Each character embodies the vibrant feminine energy that longs to awaken, representing a call for freedom and empowerment for Persian women and women everywhere.
In this painting, these legendary figures symbolize a universal awakening, reminding us that as one woman rises in awareness, all women across diverse cultures and races are inspired to do the same. Together, they form a collective strength, echoing the call for liberation and connection in the shared journey of womanhood.
Atena Salehi 