MEHDI GHADYANLOO

Known primarily for his gigantic trompe l’oeil-style murals in central Tehran, Ghadyanloo also creates paintings, with surreal and minimalistic themes. He provides an autobiographical perspective, portraying the landscapes of his youth, his memories of Iran-Iraq war (1980-1988), and his life experience in the Islamic Republic. Although at times sombre and even suggestive of a failed utopia, Ghadyanloo’s work conveys hope that change can be effected, and it speaks with joy of what remains glorious in gloomy times. Mehdi Ghadyanloo is also considered one of Middle East’s leading public artists.

Mehdi Ghadyanloo currently presents his first solo museum exhibition at Long Museum (West Bund), in Shanghai, China. Featuring 12 new paintings and works on paper alongside older works, the exhibition is on view until July 28.