Fedra, a contemporary artist, explores the intersection of diverse cultural influences through her expressionist paintings. Her work intertwines elements from her ancient eastern textiles with the aesthetics of the Western world, creating a dialogue that nurtures a shared understanding among cultures.
As an immigrant living in exile, her art deeply reflects the emotional impact of being separated from her homeland and loved ones. Her pieces are influenced by Persian textiles and rugs, common fixtures in Persian homes, which serve as a warm reminder of her cultural roots within the context of Western-influenced abstract paintings.
Fedra begins with a detailed draft drawing on canvas, linen, or paper, central to her creative process. Using acrylic and gouache, she presents traditional Persian compositions with shapes and figures that mimic abstract styles. Bold tones are paired with earthy hues, and traditional motifs are rendered in a contemporary style, inviting viewers from different backgrounds to find common ground.
Her paintings often feature small, childlike drawings of human figures, miniature dogs, and other mythical creatures with blank faces in vivid colors. The blank faces, confined within their own squares or rectangles, symbolize the perpetual sense of displacement experienced by those living in exile, while the vivid colors convey an intense desire to belong, and hope despite the alienating experience of being in a new country. The childlike drawings evoke nostalgia for the past and childhood.The bright shades embody hope and the promise of fresh starts, while the earthy tones represent the warmth of home and a deep sense of belonging. The abstract shapes represent chaos in search of peace and solitude.
Through her work, Fedra transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, creating art that invites dialogue and understanding between East and West. By blending the rich traditions of Persian culture with modern artistic expressions, she fosters a deeper connection between diverse audiences. For Fedra, painting is a universal language of storytelling, transcending barriers and embracing the concept of living without borders.
"The story behind my paintings belongs to all who long for home and those in search of belonging and hope."
Her work has been exhibited across the United States, including in Seattle, San Diego,Portland, San Francisco, Port Townsend, New York, Los Angeles, Denver, and Washington D.C.