Events, News |

May 3, 2025

PMA and SOAS University of London: Artistic Innovation at the Library of Prince Baysunghur

Artistic Innovation at the Library of Prince Baysunghur

Artistic Innovation at the Library of Prince Baysunghur, Dr Shiva Mihan, SOAS University of London, 8 May 2025

Dr Shiva Mihan
Convenor: Professor Anna Contadini

ReSIA
(Research Seminar in Islamic Art)
Thursday 8 May 2025, 18:00h
Khalili Lecture Theatre – SOAS, University of London

Timurid prince Baysunghur (1397–1433) established his royal library and atelier (kitabkhana) in Herat circa 1420. In the brief but prolific period before his untimely death, the library produced over thirty manuscripts and advanced the arts of the book. Under his patronage, significant advancements were made in calligraphy, illumination, textual editing, mise-en-page, and album making (muraqqaʿ).

This paper introduces the structure and ambitions of Baysunghur’s kitabkhana, offering a reassessment of the oft-cited project report, the Arzadasht, and drawing on extant manuscripts and primary sources. Special attention is given to the Jung-i Marathi (Book of Elegies), a hitherto overlooked source that sheds light on the intellectual and aesthetic ambitions of the Baysunghur’s atelier.

Dr Shiva Mihan is Curator of Islamic Collections (Persianate World) at the British Museum. She received her PhD from the University of Cambridge in 2018, where her dissertation Timurid Manuscript Production: The Scholarship and Aesthetics of Prince Baysunghur’s Royal Library (1420–1435) was awarded the Leigh Douglas Memorial Prize by the British Society for Middle Eastern Studies in 2019. She has held curatorial and academic positions at leading institutions, including a postdoctoral fellowship as Curator of Islamic Art at the Harvard Art Museums (2018–2020) and a subsequent fellowship in Islamic Art at the School of Historical Studies, Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton. She has also taught Islamic art as a visiting professor at Washington University in St Louis. Mihan’s research centres on the history of Islamic manuscript production, artistic patronage, and the transmission of texts in the Persianate world. She is currently also the founder and President of the Persian Manuscripts Association. Her forthcoming monograph, Patronage and Manuscript Production in Timurid Herat, offers a new reading of manuscript culture under Prince Baysunghur. Bridging art history and intellectual history, the book explores the material and textual richness of manuscripts produced in Herat during the early 15th century, underscoring the often-overlooked significance of their literary content.

-To attend in person, please register in advance via the link in bio:
https://tinyurl.com/2cy5rh5z

-To attend via Zoom, please email mb@royalasiaticsociety.org to request a link.

SOAS University of London, Logo

Articles, News |

April 24, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani Featured in The FLUX Review, Edition 12

Nasim Yazdani has been featured in The FLUX Review, Edition 12—an international magazine known for showcasing voices shaping today’s contemporary art scene.

Nasim Yazdani Featured in The FLUX Review, Edition 12, Cover, available at: https://www.thefluxreview.com/store/.

This edition includes a full-length interview with the artist, exploring the evolution of her practice, her commitment to social responsibility, and the deeper philosophical questions that underpin her abstract work.

In the interview, Yazdani reflects on her early curiosity for art, sparked in childhood and later enhanced through academic study and cross-cultural experiences. She discusses her journey from realistic portraiture to an abstract visual language that examines human emotion, identity, and the unseen connections that bind the whole universe. Her current series, The Essence, embodies these themes through layered acrylic works that probe the idea of unity in diversity.

Yazdani’s style—described as a fusion of expressive realism and abstraction—uses textured palette knife techniques to evoke both movement and stillness. She views art as a form of social activism, a space to challenge fixed identities and artificial borders. Her work celebrates cultural hybridity while encouraging a collective reflection on shared human experience.

The feature also introduces readers to her recent sub-series, The Essence: Shadows and Symphony of Features, which explore dualities such as light and dark, unity and individuality, offering profound meditations on resilience, growth, and transformation.

Nasim Yazdani Featured in The FLUX Review, Edition 12, Page 58-59

Nasim Yazdani Featured in The FLUX Review, Edition 12, Page 60-61

Nasim Yazdani Featured in The FLUX Review, Edition 12, Page 62-63

Edition 12 of The FLUX Review is now available via https://www.thefluxreview.com/store/, offering a deeper look into Yazdani’s unique voice and vision in the world of contemporary art.

To view Nasim Yazdani’s portfolio, visit https://nasimyazdani.com/, and follow Nasim Yazdani’s Instagram.

Events, News |

April 16, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Persian Manuscripts Association Hosts Dr Theodore Beers for Its Fourth Monthly Talk of 2025

A Review of Early Manuscripts of Nasr Allah Munshi’s Kalila va Dimna

The Persian Manuscripts Association is honoured to welcome Dr Theodore Beers as the guest speaker for its April 2025 lecture, the fourth lecture in this year’s monthly talk series. Dr Beers, a distinguished scholar of classical Persian literature, will present a talk titled ‘A Review of Early Manuscripts of Naṣrallāh Munshī’s Kalīla va Dimna’. His work offers fresh insights into one of the foundational texts of Persian prose, and the PMA team is delighted to host him for what promises to be a rich and illuminating session.

A Review of Early Manuscripts of Nasr Allah munshi’s Kalila va Dimna by Dr Theodore Beers, April 2025

This presentation will focus on early manuscripts of the Persian version of Kalīla and Dimna—a book of (mostly) animal fables that is a classic of premodern world literature—by Naṣrallāh Munshī, written at the Ghaznavid court ca. 540/1145–46. Naṣrallāh’s text is considered one of the foundational works of classical Persian prose literature.

Among its noteworthy characteristics is that a few very early manuscript copies have survived, the oldest of which is dated 551/1156. In fact, although this Persian Kalīla and Dimna is based on the Arabic version attributed to Ibn al-Muqaffa‘ (ca. 750 CE), the very earliest extant copies of the Arabic are more recent, from the seventh/thirteenth century! The talk will discuss the curious phenomenon of the well-preserved codicology of Naṣrallāh Munshī’s work, showing example pages from three or four early manuscripts (as time permits).

Unsurprisingly, these Persian manuscripts from the sixth/twelfth and seventh/thirteenth century have interesting features of their own, in terms of orthography, calligraphic style, text layout, and more.

Dr Theodore Beer

Theodore Beers (PhD, University of Chicago, 2020) is a historian of classical Persian literature, with particular interests in premodern literary exchange between Persian and Arabic, and in the development of digital corpora and tools to strengthen the study of these traditions. He is currently based at Drexel University in Philadelphia as a research software engineer, and he also maintains an affiliation with the Kalīla and Dimna Project at the Freie Universität Berlin.

Dr Theodore Beers, PhD, Drexel University, Philadelphia

17 April 2025, 5 – 7 pm BST
Online Lecture on Zoom

Persian Manuscripts Association (PMA)

The Persian Manuscripts Association (PMA) is an international academic organisation dedicated to the study of manuscripts from the vast Persianate world. This includes Greater Iran, and all regions historically engaged in the Persian language and culture.

The PMA is a welcoming institution supporting interdisciplinary research and discourse in Persian studies across all relevant fields, including but not limited to history, literature, music, art, architecture, archaeology, codicology, paleography, philosophy, and the sciences.

For more information about the PMA’s monthly talks, visit https://persianmanuscripts.org/2025-2/.

Logo, Persian Manuscripts Association

Events, News |

April 12, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani Joins The Art Circle Bath

In April 2025, artist Nasim Yazdani joined The Art Circle Bath, an active and welcoming group of creatives based in the city of Bath.

The Art Circle, Bath, Logo. Available at: https://bakas.co.uk/art-circle/

The Art Circle provides a vibrant platform for local artists to connect, collaborate, and support each other through exhibitions, events, and ongoing conversations around artistic practice. Shortly after joining, Nasim attended one of The Art Circle’s art social and networking evenings, held at The Raven Bath Library. The event proved to be a special evening filled with thoughtful presentations and lively discussion. Many well-established artists, based in Bath, gathered to connect over shared creativity.

The evening featured presentations by four talented artists:

Amy Prescott (Instagram/ @amyeliza_illustrations) shared her nature-inspired illustrations, often sketched en plein air and transformed into beautiful prints using ink, watercolour, and digital editing. She also spoke about her approach to Instagram marketing and keeping her work accessible through affordable pricing.

Amy Eliza Prescott, The Art Circle, Bath, April, 2025

Christine Mckenzie (Instagram/ @christine_mckenzie_art) took the group on a visual journey through her large-scale paintings inspired by travel, from architectural scenes to tropical beaches. She offered insights into balancing art with a day job, finding her audience, and staying committed to painting through highs and lows.

Christine Mckenzie, The Art Circle, Bath, April 2025

Jo Thorne (Instagram/ @jothornefineart) presented one of her latest abstract works, developed through music, sketching, and a deep connection to colour and scale. Having recently transitioned to full-time art practice, she shared valuable resources on pricing and gallery collaboration.

Jo Thorne, The Art Circle, Bath, April, 2025

Hetti Dysch (Instagram/ @hettidyschart) showcased two of her bold, textured abstract paintings created with a palette knife using oil and wax. She spoke about her technique of layering fluorescent under paintings to create a captivating luminosity that shines through the final piece.

Hetti Dysch, The Art Circle, Bath, April, 2025

The evening also included announcements about exhibiting and networking opportunities.

To learn more about The Art Circle Bath, visit https://bakas.co.uk/art-circle/.

For more information about Nasim Yazdani, visit her website and follow her Instagram.

Articles, News |

April 2, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

A Critical Review from Juan Pablo Ruiz Morales

2 April 2025

Chilean artist and designer Juan Pablo Ruiz Morales recently offered a critical review of The Essence by Nasim Yazdani, highlighting the collection’s thematic depth and the artist’s approach to materiality. Juan Pablo, who has spent over a decade refining his skills in pen-and-ink drawing, blends his background in industrial design and firefighting with his artistic practice. As the founder of Mons Design Studio, he brings a unique global perspective to his work.

Juan Pablo Ruiz Morales

Juan Pablo Ruiz Morales’ Review:

‘The Essence feels like a meditation on time—where past, present, and future exist in a single breath. Nasim Yazdani’s ability to shape materials into poetic forms is striking, each piece holding a quiet, undeniable presence. What moves me most is the honesty in Yazdani’s work. She does not force the material; she listens to it. Textures, imperfections, and shapes emerge as if they always belonged, revealing something both fragile and enduring. The artist’s statement beautifully frames this dialogue between destruction and preservation—a tension that lingers in every piece. The Essence carries a clarity that feels deeply personal yet universal. It’s a stunning collection.’

Nasim Yazdani - The Essence 2404 - 2024 - 80 by 60 cm - Acrylic on Canvas

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence 2404, 2024, 80 x 60 cm, Acrylic on Canvas

Juan Pablo’s review offers a compelling perspective on the collection, noting its ability to generate both personal and universal themes through its careful balance of destruction and preservation. His insights indicate the thoughtfulness behind The Essence and the profound emotional impact it leaves on viewers.

For more information about Nasim Yazdani and her artworks, visit her website: nasimyazdani.com, follow her LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nasimyazdani-ef, her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nassimyazdani/?hl=en and her Facebook: Facebook/NassimYazdani.

Articles, News |

March 30, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Dr Barbara Johnson Writes a Critical Review of Nasim Yazdani’s Latest Collections

30 March 2025

Dr Barbara Johnson, a scholar in Global Education and a dedicated advocate for justice, peace, and unity, has offered a critical review of The Essence and The Essence: Shadows collections by Nasim Yazdani. Dr Johnson serves as the lead editor for Tender Branches Press, a division of Loving All the World, Inc., a not-for-profit organisation that engages children, families, and communities with resources and initiatives to promote justice and service. Her work focuses on empowering children to embrace diversity, serve humanity, and work towards a more peaceful world.

Dr Barbara Johnson

In her review, Dr Johnson reflects the depth and impact of Yazdani’s work:

‘Nasim Yazdani’s love for the world and all people who make the earth our home takes focus in her collection of paintings. In her collection, The Essence, we clearly see the light of the human spirit as well as its shadow; her latest collections seem to highlight potential even while facing the darker aspects of human experience; and her Symphony of Features shows the beauty in every person: truly a collection of poems for the eye. But my favourite of all Ms Yazdani’s work is her work for children. Her illustrations show entirely different aspects of the artist’s talent as she portrays the shining potential of the child. This is an artist to watch!

Ms Yazdani’s abstract paintings explore the concepts of light and darkness as they pertain to the human experience, with implications for human relationships in their positive and negative possibilities, and returning always to the promise of connection. The abstractions invite the viewer to experience the full range of possibilities within the individual and also clearly suggest the commonality of human experience, in which we find ourselves as members of the same human family. The suggestion of leaves in her paintings broadens the depiction of human experience within the self and within relationships, to include the possibility of life in harmony with the natural world.

Yazdani’s art is not limited to her work as a painter. Her painterly eye and hand extend her gifts to the world’s children with a clear invitation to move forward into the light, collaborating with others to create a world of peace, justice, and unity. Her work reflects her dedication to her craft, her exploration of human experiences, and a call to transcendence. She accompanies us in our collective endeavours to see the truth in ourselves and in the world, to reconcile this tension, and to take a next step together.’

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence – Shadows 2402, 2025, Acrylic on canvas, 80 x 60 cm

Dr Johnson’s expertise in global education and her deep commitment to fostering unity and justice make her perspective particularly meaningful. Her thoughtful critique affirms the depth of Yazdani’s artistic vision and situates her work within a broader global conversation about art’s role in shaping a more unified world. Her words serve as both recognition and encouragement, further cementing Yazdani’s place as an influential artist whose work is making a lasting impact.

More about Nasim Yazdani’s artistic journey and latest works can be found on her official website: nasimyazdani.com.

Articles, News |

March 29, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Joe Paczkowski Offers Critical Review of Nasim Yazdani’s The Essence

March 29, 2025

The esteemed digital graphic designer Joe Paczkowski has recently provided a thoughtful critical review of Nasim Yazdani’s latest painting collection, The Essence. Known for his self-taught expertise in graphic design and his work in exhibition stands, vehicle graphics, and signage, Joe’s artistic perspective offers a fresh and engaging insight into Yazdani’s work. His review of The Essence praises the collection’s emotional depth and visual complexity, providing an in-depth analysis of its artistic merits.

Artist Joe Paczkowski at a Bicentenary event

In his critique, Joe writes:

‘Nasim Yazdani’s The Essence is a striking collection that was recognised as one of the finalists in the London International Creative Competition, a testament to its artistic and emotional depth. Working with acrylic paint, Yazdani masterfully layers textures and contrasts, creating a visual language that mirrors the complexities of human experience. The central theme of The Essence revolves around human faces emerging from abstract backgrounds, where highly contrasted shades interplay within a limited palette. This artistic choice is both deliberate and evocative, as it generates a harmony amidst chaos—an effect that profoundly engages the viewer. The faces, appearing to struggle from a swirling sea of abstraction, symbolise the emergence of identity, emotion, and realisation. This visual tension between form and formlessness creates a compelling narrative that invites deep contemplation.

The use of a limited palette is particularly effective, serving as a unifying force amidst the collection’s strong contrasts. Rather than dulling the vibrancy of the pieces, it enhances the interplay between light and shadow, heightening the emotional resonance of the figures. The result is a dynamic tension that suggests not just struggle, but also resolution and healing. The paintings beckon the viewer into an active search—to recognise, understand, and connect with the figures that reveal themselves through the compositions.

The collection’s paintings present a range of emotional expressions and states, yet a cohesive theme emerges: the unveiling of an inner truth. The figures, complex and layered, convey depth, conflict, and vulnerability. However, beyond the tension, an overarching message of hope and attainment prevails. There is a suggestion of transcendence, as if the subjects are breaking through the chaos to reveal something essential about the human spirit.

Yazdani’s ability to balance abstraction with emotional depth ensures that The Essence is not just visually captivating but also profoundly introspective. It is a collection that lingers in the mind, inviting multiple interpretations and continued engagement. The interplay of clashing shades and emerging forms speaks to the universal experience of transformation, making this exhibition a powerful and resonant artistic statement. In The Essence, Yazdani does not merely depict emotion—she compels the viewer to feel it, making this collection a significant and memorable contribution to contemporary art.’

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence 2406, 2024, 80 x 60 cm, Acrylic on Canvas

Joe Paczkowski’s review highlights the emotional and visual impact of Yazdani’s collection, The Essence, underscoring the complexity of human identity and the transformative power of art. His analysis offers valuable insight into the profound resonance of the work, providing an additional layer of recognition for Yazdani’s ongoing contribution to contemporary art.’

More about Nasim Yazdani’s artistic journey and latest works can be found on her official website: nasimyazdani.com.

Articles, News |

March 28, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Renowned Scholar Anne Gordon Perry Reviews Nasim Yazdani’s Latest Collection: The Essence

March 27, 2025

Internationally recognised artist Nasim Yazdani has received a critical review from Dr Anne Gordon Perry for her latest collection, The Essence. Dr Perry, a distinguished scholar with a PhD in Aesthetic Studies, is known for her contributions to literature, film, and publishing, as well as her deep engagement with the arts and aesthetics. Her review affirms the significance of Yazdani’s artistic exploration of human identity and oneness.

Dr Anne Gordon Perry, PhD Aesthetic Studies, College Instructor, Art Appreciation, Texas, USA

In her critique of The Essence, Dr Perry states:

‘Nasim Yazdani explores human identity through her paintings in a profoundly thoughtful, cross-cultural way. Having emerged from a restrictive culture to a more progressive one, she is well aware of the importance of self-expression, human rights, and arts as a catalyst for social change. The faces in her paintings suggest we are all part of a diverse, collective species. Differences of race, gender, ethnicity, heritage, and age—essentially all variations of the human experience—seem to be minimised in her work in favour of the most important aspect—our oneness. Bold and sure, her work signals a kind of ‘coming of age’ of the human race, with affirmation at its core.’

Yazdani’s work has been widely acknowledged for its emphasis on the universality of human experience. Through her art, she challenges societal barriers and fosters an inclusive dialogue that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. The Essence exemplifies this vision, offering viewers a profound meditation on identity, unity, and the transformative power of art.

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence 2418, 2024, Acrylic on canvas, 80 x 60 cm

Dr Perry’s review reinforces Yazdani’s growing impact in the global art scene, further positioning her as an influential figure in contemporary visual arts. More about Nasim Yazdani’s artistic journey and latest works can be found on her official website: nasimyazdani.com.

Events, News |

March 20, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani Named Finalist in the Prestigious London International Creative Competition (LICC)

Nasim Yazdani’s latest collection, The Essence, has been recognised as a finalist in the 2024 London International Creative Competition (LICC). The announcement, made by the LICC Jury, places Yazdani’s work among the finest creative submissions of the year, celebrating her artistic vision and impact on contemporary abstraction.

London International Creative Competition (2025) 'Finalist, Nasim Yazdani', Selected Project: The Essence, 2025

London International Creative Competition (LICC), ‘Finalist, Nasim Yazdani’, Selected Project: The Essence, 2024, Announced: March 2025

In an official statement, LICC congratulated Yazdani, saying:

‘It gives us immense pleasure to inform you that the Jury has chosen your submission as a Finalist, selected by the LICC Jury from all the Shortlisted entries, recognising your work as one of the finest in the 2024 London International Creative Competition…’ —Signed by The LICC Team

Yazdani’s latest collection of acrylic paintings, The Essence, explores the profound unity of humanity. The series, inspired by her poetry, reflects on themes of identity, connection, and the dissolution of artificial divisions.

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence 2411, 2024, Acrylic on canvas, 42 x 59.4 cm

Guided by the verse:
‘We are all light. We are all shadow. We are all colour. We are all rainbow’, the collection visually narrates the shared human experience, embracing the fundamental interconnectedness of all beings. Through abstraction, Yazdani shifts the focus from physical differences to the essence of existence, encouraging viewers to see the oneness of the whole universe.

This prestigious recognition by LICC is a testament to Yazdani’s ability to evoke emotion and challenge perspectives through her art. Her transition into abstraction with The Essence is not merely an aesthetic evolution but a deliberate expansion of her artistic philosophy—one that seeks to bridge the seen and the unseen, the tangible and the intangible.

London International Creative Competition (LICC), ‘Finalists Page, LICC Website’, Selected Project: The Essence, 2024

Being selected as a finalist among a competitive field of international artists highlights the significance of Yazdani’s work in today’s art scene. LICC, known for celebrating innovation and originality across various artistic disciplines, has once again provided a platform to showcase thought-provoking, boundary-pushing art.

Yazdani expressed her gratitude for the recognition and the opportunity to share The Essence on a global stage, reinforcing her commitment to creating art that questions unreal cultural and physical limitations.

The Essence is available for viewing on Nasim Yazdani’s website and the LICC’s 2024 finalists page.

For more information about the 2024 London International Creative Competition and the full list of finalists, visit LICC’s official website.

London International Creative Competition (LICC), ‘Finalist Page, LICC Website’, Selected Project: The Essence, 2024

For more updates on Nasim Yazdani’s work, visit her website: nasimyazdani.com, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Events, News |

March 17, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani Selected for Jackson’s Art Prize 2025 Extended Longlist

Artist Nasim Yazdani has been selected for the Extended Longlist of Jackson’s Art Prize 2025, an international competition celebrating contemporary art across various styles and mediums.

Jackson’s Art Prize Award Badge for Extended Longlist, Nasim Yazdani

This year’s competition received an impressive 12,964 entries from 129 countries, making it one of the most competitive editions to date. For the first time, Jackson’s Art has introduced an Extended Longlist, highlighting 3,168 artworks that successfully passed the first round of judging. Yazdani’s inclusion in this selection places her among a distinguished group of artists whose work stood out in the initial phase of evaluation.

Extended Longlist Announced, Jackson’s Art Prize

Jackson’s Art Prize is known for recognising artistic excellence and fostering creative talent worldwide. The Extended Longlist provides an opportunity for a broader range of artists to gain visibility and recognition within the global art community.

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence 2419, 2024, Acrylic on canvas, 42 x 59.4 cm

Yazdani, whose work explores themes of culture, identity, and unity in diversity, continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art. Her selection for this year’s longlist marks another significant milestone in her artistic career.

To read more about Jackson’s Art Prize, visit: https://www.jacksonsart.com/artprize/.

The full Extended Longlist gallery can be viewed here: https://ctrk.klclick1.com/l/01JPABRNB30AZJXEAFBCGHYREN_3 .

Nasim Yazdani’s artwork can be viewed here: https://jacksonsart.awardsplatform.com/gallery/qdomVPbO?keywords=the+essence&chapter=&category=&yBeWvMpe=&per_page=100 .

For more updates on Nasim Yazdani’s work, visit her website: nasimyazdani.com, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Events, News |

March 11, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani to Exhibit at EuroExpoArt 2025

Euro Expo Art 2025

Nasim Yazdani will be exhibiting at EuroExpoArt 2025, an international contemporary art event held within the Vernice Art Fair in Forlì, Italy. This marks her third participation in the exhibition, following her previous showcases in 2017 and 2018.

Curated by Giorgio Bertozzi and Ferdan Yusufi, EuroExpoArt is a well-established platform that brings together artists from around the world. The event provides a unique opportunity for artistic dialogue, showcasing diverse contemporary works in various media. The 2025 edition will take place from March 28 to March 30 at Romagna Fiere.

Nasim Yazdani’s participation highlights her continued engagement with the international art scene. Her work explores themes of unity in diversity, and cultural narratives. With a background in the visual arts, she has exhibited in various international venues and continues to contribute to the global art community.

EuroExpoArt 2025 will feature a wide selection of contemporary artists, offering visitors the chance to experience new perspectives and experience the story of the contemporary world through different artists’ perspectives. The exhibition will be open to the public from 28 March to 30 March 2025. More details about the event can be found at www.euroexpoart.com.

Nasim Yazdani’s painting featured in Euro Expo Art 2025 can be viewed at http://www.euroexpoart.com/artists/artists-2025/.

To see Yazdani’s previous Euro Expo Art participations, visit EuroExpoArt 2017 and EuroExpoArt 2018.

For the previous art fair catalogues, go to EuroExpoArt/catalogues.

The event is also presented by Neo Art Gallery and Giorgio Bertozzi, and more information about the event can be found on their websites, http://www.neoartgallery.it/event/euroexpoart-vernice-art-fair-2025/ and http://www.giorgiobertozzi.it/arte/euroexpoart-vernice-art-fair-2025/.

For updates on Nasim Yazdani’s work and exhibitions, visit nasimyazdani.com.

Vernice Art Fair 2025

News |

February 7, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani Joins New Bath Arts Club and Announces Upcoming Exhibition

Nasim Yazdani joins the New Bath Arts Club.

About NBAC, NBAC Website, 2025, https://www.newbathartsclub.co.uk/about

The club, founded by the renowned Bath artist Charles L.W. Minty, is a vibrant community of diverse, talented artists who support each other’s creative journeys. As an artist passionate about cultural diversity and human connection, Nasim is honoured to be part of a group that fosters collaboration and artistic growth.

As a member, Yazdani will have the opportunity to participate in exhibitions, networking events, and creative discussions alongside other established artists in Bath. The club provides a platform for artistic visibility and professional development, supporting artists in expanding their reach.

As part of her membership, Yazdani will be exhibiting her work at Walcot Chapel Art Space in September 2025, alongside fellow members of the New Bath Arts Club. The exhibition will showcase a variety of contemporary works, highlighting different artistic perspectives.

Further details about the exhibition will be announced closer to the date. For more updates on Nasim Yazdani’s work and upcoming events, visit nasimyazdani.com and newbathartsclub.co.uk

Nasim Yazdani’s profile is available on the New Bath Arts Club’s website: https://www.newbathartsclub.co.uk/members/professional-artists/nasim-yazdani.

News |

February 5, 2025

| by nasimyazdani

Collaboration with Persian Manuscripts Association

Persian Manuscripts Association Logo

Nasim Yazdani has joined the Persian Manuscripts Association (PMA), an esteemed international academic organisation dedicated to the study of Persianate manuscripts. Since September, she has been working alongside a community of scholars committed to preserving and advancing the understanding of this rich and complex heritage.

Founded in 2021, the PMA emerged in response to the unique challenges surrounding access to Persianate manuscripts. In an era where historical materials are scattered across the globe and require meticulous scholarly attention, the PMA plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration across multiple disciplines. With a focus on history, literature, music, art, architecture, archaeology, codicology, paleography, philosophy, and the sciences, this organisation serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research and dialogue.

One of the most exciting developments within the PMA is the establishment of the PMA Press in 2024. This scholarly imprint publishes academic monographs, conference proceedings, and Shamsa, a peer-reviewed journal that offers a platform for cutting-edge research in Persian studies.

For more information about the Persian Manuscripts Association and its activities, visit the PMA website.

PMA Press

The ambition of PMA Press is to create an efficient, productive, and swift publishing experience for authors, scholars, and academics. It highly values your time and strives to minimise the publishing timeline without compromising quality. PMA’s innovative, artistic, and professional design team ensures the highest standards for your publication.

At PMA Press, the publication process is meticulously crafted to provide clarity and efficiency. Each project begins with a thorough review by the PMA’s academic committee of your book proposal, which should include a summary of the book, its aims, and main features. Upon approval, the manuscript will be evaluated by anonymous, expert peer reviewers. Their feedback helps refine the content, ensuring your arguments are robust and withstand critical scrutiny.

Once the final manuscript is ready, the skilled design team transforms your work into a visually captivating and professionally polished publication. Following meticulous copyediting and proofreading, your book will be printed, marketed, and distributed to reach a global audience. PMA Press embraces a wide array of subjects that celebrate cultural heritage and intellectual exploration. We specialise in Persian studies (across all disciplines), Islamic manuscripts, and art books.

We collaborate with academics from diverse backgrounds and welcome contributions from researchers at all career stages – from emerging scholars to distinguished professors – to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment for advancing knowledge. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond content; we uphold the highest standards in artistic design and sustainability. Join us as we continue to make an impact through meaningful and transformative publications.

For more information about PMA Press, visit the PMA website: PMA Press.

Shamsa: The Journal of the Persian Manuscripts Association

Shamsa is a scholarly journal that hopes to encourage rigorous and comprehensive studies into all aspects and periods of the historically Persianate world (including, but not limited to, Iran, Iraq, South Asia, Central Asia, and Turkey). The journal is a vital piece of the PMA’s mission to provide a forum for specialist colleagues around the world to connect, discuss developments in the field, and exchange ideas and information.

Shamsa accepts submissions that include articles or research notes from researchers working across periods and disciplines. It has an emphasis on the study of manuscripts and related media and welcomes compelling research on any aspect of Persian studies.

For more information about Shamsa, visit the PMA website: Shamsa.

PMA International Conference

Listen to the Flute, PMA Conference, September 2025, Banner

Listen to the Flute: Timurid Music and its Transmissions Across the Persianate World

The Persian Manuscripts Association (PMA) is pleased to announce its second international conference on Persian Studies, titled ‘Listen to the Flute: Timurid Music and its Transmissions Across the Persianate World.’

This interdisciplinary event will focus on the intricate and complex history of musical exchange, patronage, and practice within the Persianate world, with a particular focus on the Timurid period (15th century) and its enduring influence during the following centuries in Safavid Iran, Ottoman Anatolia, Mughal India, and Shaybanid Transoxiana.

For the first time, this conference will convene leading scholars in the field to explore the historical, social, and political contexts that shaped musical practices across the Persianate world. It will examine the evolution of music in the courts and urban centres of Iran, Central Asia, the Ottoman Empire, and Mughal India. Additionally, the conference will discuss the sociocultural impact of music, addressing its theoretical foundations, performance traditions, and the patronage systems that sustained and transformed the musical landscape.
For more information about the PMA international conference, visit the PMA website: News.

Listen to the Flute, PMA Conference, September 2025, Flyer

PMA Monthly Talk Series

PMA Inaugural Talk 2025, 23 January, SOAS University of London, Banner

The PMA hosts a monthly talk series, bringing together experts to discuss various topics in Persian studies. The inaugural talk of 2025 was held at SOAS University of London:

Cobalt and Gold: Re-examining Lajvardina Wares and Links to Persian Manuscript Painting.

This lecture, delivered by Dr. Richard Piran McClary, explored significant themes from his monograph on lajvardina wares, focusing on their historical and artistic implications. The discussion examined the motifs on lajvardina vessels and tiles, comparing them with manuscript paintings to better understand the Ilkhanid aesthetic and architectural context.

PMA Inaugural Talk 2025, 23 January, SOAS University of London, 2

PMA Inaugural Talk 2025, 23 January, SOAS University of London

Speaker: Dr. Richard Piran McClary, Senior Lecturer in Islamic Art and Architecture, University of York

Date: 23 January 2025, 5 – 7 pm

Location: SWLT, Paul Webley Building, SOAS University of London

Format: In-person and Online

PMA Inaugural Talk 2025, 23 January, SOAS University of London, Flyer

Nasim Yazdani’s collaboration with the PMA is in line with her artistic and academic vision. As an artist, Nasim’s work explores the themes of unity in diversity and cultural interconnectedness—concepts deeply embedded in Persian art and manuscript traditions. Through this collaboration, she contributes to the preservation and dissemination of this rich cultural heritage while developing her creative exploration of historical narratives and visual storytelling. The PMA’s interdisciplinary approach complements her artistic practice, allowing her to engage with scholars, historians, and fellow artists to deepen her understanding of Persian manuscripts and their artistic significance while strengthening her global approach to art as a mean for positive social change.

You can support the Persian Manuscripts Association by following the PMA’s Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

News |

October 22, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani, Featured in the Book ‘101 Contemporary Artists and More…’, Volume 7

Nasim Yazdani’s work has been featured in the 7th volume of the book 101 Contemporary Artists and More….

101 Contemporary Artists and More, Vol 7, Featuring Nasim Yazdani, Page_001

The concept of the book ‘101 Contemporary Artists and More…’ is built on the idea of showcasing diverse voices in contemporary art from all over the world. It’s a curated collection of artists who are actively shaping today’s visual landscape.

101 Contemporary Artists and More, Vol 7, Featuring Nasim Yazdani, Page_004

The platform that Collect Art has built through this project offers artists a unique opportunity to share their work with a global audience and, more importantly, to tell the stories behind their creations. The book doesn’t just feature the art itself; it explores the conceptual and emotional layers that bring the works to life. That is what really drew me to this project.

101 Contemporary Artists and More, Vol 7, Featuring Nasim Yazdani, Page_003

For this edition, Yazdani contributed The Essence, a series of acrylic paintings exploring humanity’s interconnectedness. Through abstraction, the collection reflects on emotions, identity, and shared experiences, emphasising the fundamental connections between individuals beyond race, culture, and background. Inspired by Yazdani’s poem, We are all light, we are all shadow, we are all colour, we are all rainbow, the series incorporates the human face as a central element, symbolising universality.

Acrylics remain Yazdani’s preferred medium, allowing for layered textures and colours that convey the depth of human emotion. Through The Essence, the artist continues to explore the beauty of diversity and the unity within human experience.

101 Contemporary Artists and More, Vol 7, Featuring Nasim Yazdani, Page_009

Being featured in 101 Contemporary Artists and More… provides an opportunity to engage with a global audience and participate in a broader conversation about the role of art in society. Yazdani acknowledges the importance of such platforms in amplifying artistic voices and fostering dialogue.

The book is available on the Collect Art website, offering readers a curated insight into contemporary artistic perspectives from around the world.

Events |

September 22, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

Reflecting on the Peace Colour Exhibition (2016) at Milad Tower

September 2016, The Peace Colour exhibition, held at Milad Tower and curated by Pooyandegan Art Institute, showcased 88 selected artworks from hundreds of submissions. The exhibition aimed to promote harmony, understanding, and unity through artistic expression.

Nasim Yazdani’s artwork, Isn’t It Enough?, a 70 x 50 cm acrylic painting, was among the selected pieces.

Peace Colour Art Fair, Milad Tower, Tehran, 2016

The work highlighted the impact of violence on children, emphasising how they bear the heaviest burden when peace is disrupted by adult’s ambitions. The exhibition provided a platform for artists to address the significance of peace through visual storytelling.

Isn’t It Enough, Acrylic on canvas, 70 x 50 cm, 2016

The event received media coverage from prominent outlets, including Mehr News, Honar Online and Borna News, underscoring the importance of peace in today’s world and the role that artists can play in fostering it.

One of the most memorable moments of the exhibition was the presence of Gary Lewis, the UN Resident Coordinator in Iran, who participated in the closing ceremony. His attendance brought an international perspective to the exhibition, reinforcing the universal relevance of peace and the ways art can transcend borders and foster dialogue, and the unique power it has in addressing critical global issues and bringing people together around a shared vision for a more peaceful world.

Although this exhibition took place several years ago, the message is still timely.

Events |

September 20, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

The 2016 Blue Gold Exhibition: “Harvesting the Mirage” at Etemad Gallery

April 22 – May 10, 2016 – The Blue Gold exhibition, held at Etemad Gallery in Tehran, brought together a diverse group of artists to explore one of the world’s most urgent issues: the global water crisis. Curated by Leila Varaste and Vida Zaim, the exhibition highlighted one of the most pressing issues of the modern world: the global water crisis. The title “Blue Gold” emphasised the value of water as an essential, yet increasingly scarce, resource.

Blue Gold Open Call 2016

Among the featured artists, Nasim Yazdani presented Harvesting the Mirage, an acrylic painting on canvas (150×100 cm), selected for the online exhibition section. The piece examined the concept of illusion in relation to scarcity, reflecting on how the appearance of abundance can mask the reality of depletion. Within the broader exhibition theme, the work underscored the fragile and finite nature of water.

Harvesting the Mirage – Oil on canvas – 150 x 100 mm – Blue Gold Open Call 2016

The exhibition received coverage from various media outlets, PanArt Magazine, Honar Online, Avam Magazine and Gallery Online. Through this platform, artists engaged in a larger dialogue on environmental sustainability, using their work to raise awareness about water conservation.

Blue Gold served as a powerful reminder of art’s role in addressing global challenges, reinforcing the significance of creative expression in shaping critical conversations on environmental issues.

Blue Gold Open Call 2016

Events, News |

September 6, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

Exploring Human Emotions: Participation in the ‘Emotion’ Exhibition at Cista Arts

Nasim Yazdani is participating in the online group exhibition Emotion at Cista Arts, which runs from September 1st to September 30th, 2024. This exhibition is a unique and vibrant platform that brings together a diverse group of artists, all exploring the vast and intricate spectrum of human emotions through their work.

Emotion Exhibition 2024 by Cista Arts

For this exhibition, Nasim has contributed two pieces from her latest collection titled The Essence. These paintings, The Essence 2401 and The Essence 2408, are both acrylic on canvas, with dimensions of 80 x 60 cm and 40 x 60 cm respectively. In creating these works, Nasim used the human face as a central element to explore the essence of humanity through abstraction. The collection is deeply inspired by one of her poems: ‘We are all light. We are all shadow. We are all colour. We are all rainbow.’ This guiding thought drives the concept behind the paintings, as she seeks to move beyond the physical surface and into the interconnectedness that unites everything in the universe.

Nasim Yazdani, The Essence 2408, 2024, Acrylic on canvas, 40 x 60 cm

Nasim Yazdani’s goal with The Essence is to encourage viewers to look past their apparent differences and recognise the common essence that binds all human beings together. In a world that often highlights distinctions, Nasim believes it is crucial to remember that, at a deeper level, all humans are connected.

Participating in Emotion has given Nasim Yazdani the chance to continue exploring themes that are central to her artistic practice—celebrating diversity and provoking thoughtful reflection.

The exhibition is accessible online via this link: https://www.cistaarts.com/emotion throughout the month of September 2024, and for those who are interested, an exhibition book is also available for purchase on the Cista Arts website (https://www.cistaarts.com/product-page/emotion ).

Events, News |

August 20, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

Nasim Yazdani Won the People’s Choice Award at Doncaster Open Art Exhibition 2024

Symphony of Features 2403, has been awarded the People’s Choice (Best in Show) at the Doncaster Open Art Exhibition 2024.

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Symphony of Features 2403 is an acrylic on canvas piece, measuring 80 x 60 cm. Through this work, Nasim Yazdani explores the interconnectedness of the world, expressed through the dual representation of the human face. She believes that human beings, as individuals, are deeply intertwined with global events and that their thoughts and words are constantly shaped by the world around them. At the same time, each individual plays a crucial role in shaping that world in return.

Symphony of Features 2403, Winner, Peoples Choice (Best in Show), Doncaster Open Art Exhibition, 2024

For those who may not know much about Nasim Yazdani, she considers Earth to be her country. Her artistic journey has always been guided by a desire to be an agent of social transformation, spreading a message of peace and unity in diversity. She discovered her passion for art at a young age and pursued non-formal education at various art institutes before moving on to formal fine art education. This foundation has allowed her to build a fulfilling career in the visual arts and illustration.

Throughout her career, Nasim has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions, both locally and internationally. These opportunities have enabled her to share her perspective on the interconnectedness of humanity and the beauty found in our differences. While acrylic paint is Nasim’s preferred medium, she also enjoys working with coloured pencil, dry pastel, and watercolour.

Nasim Yazdani’s work primarily features abstract portraits and figures, but she does not confine herself to a single style or method. Instead, she finds strength in blending various styles and colour palettes, which allows her to further explore the concept of unity in diversity. Currently, Nasim is working on several ongoing projects, including Symphony of Features and The Essence.

Check out the exhibition and the winners at the links below:

Instagram.com/nassimyazdani

Doncaster Art Fair

YouTube/Doncaster Open Art Online Exhibition 2024 – The results

Events, News |

July 27, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

Symphony of Features 2403, Selected for Doncaster Open Exhibition 2024

Nasim Yazdani’s artwork, Symphony of Features 2403, was selected to participate in the Doncaster Open Exhibition, an esteemed online event running from July 29 to August 12. This exhibition provided an incredible opportunity to showcase artworks and compete for significant prizes.

Doncaster Open Exhibition 2024, Doncaster, England (Online)

After competing in the online art fair, the piece won the People’s Choice Award for Best in Show.

‘symphony of Features 2403, Winner of the People’s Choice Award, Best in Show, Doncaster Open Exhibition, 2024

Doncaster Art Fair, renowned for its dedication to fostering a vibrant art community, aims to establish Doncaster as an international hub for art enthusiasts, collectors, and creators. The fair is a celebration of artistic diversity and accessibility, welcoming both experienced professionals and emerging talents. Through this initiative, the fair has succeeded in making the art world more inclusive and engaging for all.

Symphony of Features 2403 explores the interconnectedness of humanity through the dual representation of the human face. Nasim’s artistic journey has always been about becoming an agent for social transformation, spreading a message of peace and unity in diversity. She believes that human beings are one with the whole world, and this interconnectedness has transformed them in unprecedented ways. People’s thoughts and words are shaped by global events, and people play a crucial role in shaping the world around them.

Nasim Yazdani – Symphony of Features 2403 – 2024 – 2pc x 40 by 60 cm – Acrylic on Canvas

For more information on the Doncaster Open Exhibition, visit the Doncaster Art Fair’s official website: https://www.doncasterartfair.com/

Events, News |

July 11, 2024

| by nasimyazdani

Connections Art Exhibition: Liberation Art Gallery Open call 2024

Nasim Yazdani’s artwork, Symphony of Features 2405, has been selected for the upcoming exhibition titled Connections at the Liberation Art Gallery in Brighton, UK. This exhibition will explore the theme of connections, ‘creating dialogue, sparking inspiration, and unveiling new possibilities’.

Connections Art Exhibition by Liberation Art Gallery

Exhibition Details:

Title: Connections
Location: Liberation Art Gallery, 38 Meeting House Lane, Brighton, BN1 1HB

Private View:

Date: Saturday, 13th July
Time: 7 pm – 11 pm

The exhibition will showcase a diverse array of artworks that beautifully encapsulate the theme of connection, including Symphony of Features 2405.

Nasim Yazdani – Symphony of Features 2405 – 2024 – 91.5 x 61 cm – Acrylic on Canvas

The selected piece is part of the collection, called Symphony of Features. Here is Nasim Yazdani’s statement for the collection:

‘In Symphony of Features, I explore human identity, highlighting unity in diversity within the individual. Each portrait is a dual representation, showcasing the harmony and contrast in human faces. By dividing the face into two parts, I reveal the subtle nuances that make each person unique yet interconnected. Just as diverse cultures form a unified humanity, the varied features of our faces create a singular identity. This collection invites viewers to think about the complexity of human existence and the beauty in diversity. It underscores the connections between us, celebrating the interconnectedness of human experiences through art.’

Event Highlights:

Live Music: Enjoy live music performances throughout the evening.
Spoken Word: Engage with powerful spoken word performances.
Artist Talks: Hear from some of the exhibiting artists about their inspirations and creative processes.
Guest Speakers: Listen to guest speakers share their insights on the theme of connections.
Welcome Drinks: Enjoy complimentary drinks upon arrival.

This private view is a special opportunity to experience the artwork first and purchase pieces that resonate with you.

Please secure your place by booking a FREE ticket via Eventbrite.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/connections-private-view-at-liberation-art-gallery-tickets-936484248597?aff=erellivmlt

Additionally, it is important to mention that images and videos will be taken during the event and shared on the gallery’s social media channels.