Pantea Mahrou exhibits her second show with Occhi Contemporary this month. Using spiritual symbols, and architectural influences, her work provides energy that encapsulates the rich history of middle eastern culture with a contemporary perspective on life. The show is available in our virtual format until May 26th on OcchiContemporary.art. We caught up to discuss her work, which is also featured in this article.
Pantea, thank you for agreeing to catch up with Occhi Magazine. This is your second solo exhibition with Occhi. You titled this ‘The Positive Vibes of Persian Civilization’ Can you explain your choice of title and theme? Is it to remind us of life principles particularly in light of negative news headlines, the political climates, and global challenges?
I’ve chosen this title because I believe that studying the culture, goddesses, and ancient-era art of a country can certainly help people stay positive and provide a sense of grounding and stability, particularly in times of uncertainty and challenges. By learning about the traditions, values, and beliefs of their culture, people can gain a deeper understanding of their place in the world and draw inspiration from the wisdom and creativity of past generations. This can help them maintain hope and a positive outlook, even in the face of negative news headlines, political climates, and global challenges.
Viewers can visit the virtual show on our sister website Occhi Contemporary. This show is a limited selection of mixed-media paintings and sculptures. Please share your inspiration for each piece.
The Ray of hope in the Persian Mansion 2092 Mixed media on canvas 100*185cm. Courtesy of the Artist.Copyright Pantea Mahrou.
The Ray of Hope
This work is from the Ancient Persia collection, which is inspired by the architecture of ancient Iran. The windows which the light entered represent hope and good days in the other window constellations can be seen, which reminds us that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves. In this work, the goat which is the symbol of power, empire, and luck, and the Amlash mother goddess which is a symbol of blessing, are used this work refers to Khayam poetry about jars, which refer to humans as mortal. We should enjoy the journey of life. In the background, there are meaningful signs which carry positive energy, as well as ancient writings such as Jirofti, Avesta, etc. holly numbers, and sacred symbols
Down in the Kasra Taq
This artwork is from the Ancient Persia collection and it represents the rich culture of ancient Persia, The acropolis crouching Lion used in this piece is a very important symbol of the ancient Persia. it represents strength and it’s a symbol of the monarchy, divine power, and strength, protector, controller of spirits and devils, constellation. Persians are always associated with the magical concept of this animal in protection against evil elements.
Segments of Persian architecture (Kasra Taq) are present in this piece that has been designed in a mysterious way. Taq Kasra remains the largest single-span brick vault in the world and it’s an object of great architectural and historical importance,
Further, the writings used in this painting have been inspired by the Cuneiform and Avesta forms of language. In the background of this artwork, meaningful signs are used with each being selected uniquely for its sacred meanings and good omen. and these symbols had deep cultural significance.
We can see the dawn light in this artwork which symbolizes hope and new beginnings and the promise of a better future. The purpose of this artwork is to introduce the ancient Persian culture and highlight the elements combined with positive energy.
Serenity Behind Fire Temple
In this work, Persian architecture is used and it shows the fire temple which represents a holy place and a sense of peace. sacred elements of ancient Persia such as a winged horse which is the symbol of purity and grace and power and old Persian jar are used.
This artwork has heavily been influenced by ancient Persia’s unique culture, Persian Cuneiform and Avesta writing has been used within this piece further with the “OM” sign and sacred symbols to provide a representation of positive energy and good omen.
The Peace of Ancient Goddesses
This piece is a collection of Persian elements used in the ancient era. Amlash mother Goddess, which is a symbol of fertility and blessing, and also horse which is the symbol of purity and nobility, and ancient jar are used. Segments of Persian architecture are present in this piece which has been designed in a mysterious way. Further, the writings and the numbers used in this painting have been inspired by the Cuneiform and Avesta form of language. With each being selected uniquely for its sacred meanings.
As a whole, this piece has been designed in such a way that even after hours of viewing, the audience can still unravel the mysteries hidden beneath each layer. The goal of creating this mural is for the audience to be diverted from their daily routines and to enter a state of euphoria, attracting positive energies.
Serenity of Karabakh Church -Mixed media on canvas 2022 120*90cm Courtesy of the artist. Copyright Pantea Mahrou
Serenity of Karabakh Church
This art piece is from the Ancient Persia collection, the architecture of Karabakh church is used in this piece, The high ceiling and raised arches of the church have created an attractive and powerful environment in which the presence of the Lord is felt with all the soul. Persian Cuneiform and Avesta writing has been used within this piece further with the “OM” sign and sacred symbols to provide a representation of positive energy and good omen.
The Sense of South
the architecture of the southern regions of Persia and signs such as the hawk, camel, desert rose, gazelle، pearl, which are very important for the southern regions are used in this piece. I use all these symbols in the historical site in order to show both the architecture and the identity and culture. The goal for the creation of this piece is to provide the viewer with a sense of good feeling while trying to create a mysterious atmosphere, combining the ancient past with the modern-day.
The Sense of South, 2020 Mixed media on canvas 2023 170*140cm (Courtesy of the artist. Copyright Pantea Mahrou)
Sound of Persia
This work is from the Ancient Persia collection, which is inspired by the architecture of ancient Persia Amlash mother Goddess which is a symbol of fertility and blessing is used in this piece
In this work, you can see the light which represents hope, new beginnings, and the promise of a better future. In the background, I have employed meaningful elements such as the numbers 4,8 and 7 , which were considered holy numbers back in the days. Persian meaningful poets and other elements which carry positive energy within them like chakra, the Om symbol (which is the sound of the universe), lucky four leaf clover, and many other meaningful elements that are used in the famous Iranian carpets which resemble wealth, luck, the universe, and love.
Luck Behind Lion Gates
This work is from the collection of Ancient Persia, in which sacred symbols and elements are used, which are combined with the rich architecture and culture of ancient Iran. In this work, ancient coins and lion statues, which are symbols of power, are used. Symbols such as power, wealth, luck, God and the world, and energy are used in the background.
The Wine of Life in the History Jar
Again, this work is from the Ancient Persia collection, which is inspired by the architecture of ancient Persia. The arch and bricks represent Persian architecture, horse rhyton and Persian jar are used in this piece. Further, the writings and the numbers used in this painting have been inspired by the Cuneiform and Avesta form of language. With each being selected uniquely for its sacred meanings. Symbols such as power, wealth, luck, God and the world, energy are used in the background.
Historical Codes Behind Ryton
Ancient Rhyton is used in this painting. Further, the writings and the numbers used in this painting have been inspired by the Cuneiform and Avesta form of language. With each being selected uniquely for its sacred meanings. As a whole, this piece has been designed in such a way that even after hours of viewing, the audience can still unravel the mysteries hidden beneath each layer. The goal of creating this mural is for the audience to be diverted from their daily routines and to enter a state of euphoria, attracting positive energies.
Is there a particular piece you’re most proud of in this selection of works?
All of my artworks are very important to me, as they each represent a unique part of my personality and emotions. It’s difficult for me to choose just one to be proud of, but if I had to, I would say that my bronze sculpture holds a special place in my heart. This piece is very specific and has a certain positive energy that makes it stand out from the rest. I put a lot of effort and care into creating it, and I believe that the symbols and elements I used all come together perfectly to convey a particular message or feeling.
Aesthetically, your work remains true in celebrating your cultural inheritance, intricate, detailed, and very alluring. Since your last show, do you feel your execution or methodology in producing work has changed or developed in any way?
As time passes and I continue to advance in my studies of history and methods in my work, I find that my work becomes more mature. Additionally, in light of recent events in our country, I strive to instill a sense of hope for a bright future in my creations. Studying ancient art and mythology can stimulate creativity and imagination, which can help people approach challenges with a more positive and proactive mindset.
What other projects are in the pipeline?
Exciting new projects are currently underway, including the creation of sculptures that will become part of the Ancient Persia collection. I am thrilled about these projects and I am certain that they will be truly special. Additionally, innovative new methods are being implemented for next year’s paintings, which I am eagerly anticipating.
For further information on Pantea and her current show, visit our Occhi Contemporary Art website
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