Abstract Art and Mindfulness – How to Experience Art with Presence
23/05/2025
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London has always been a vibrant hub for artists from around the world. With its rich history and modern energy, the city provides an ideal setting for creative expression. For Iranian artists like me, London offers a unique blend of cultural exchange and artistic exploration.
As an Iranian artist in London, my journey has been one of self-reflection and discovery. Through my artwork, I navigate the complex landscape of cultural identity, combining traditional Persian art elements with contemporary influences. This exploration goes beyond creating visually appealing pieces; it also involves telling stories that deeply connect with both my heritage and present-day experiences.
By pursuing this path, I have gained a deeper understanding of myself. Art has become a powerful tool for me to express the intricacies and beauty of my Iranian background within the diverse backdrop of London.
Shadi Mahsa’s artwork is deeply influenced by Persian art, which can be seen in the following ways:
Shadi’s exploration of chaos theory further enhances her artistic expression. She incorporates natural patterns like fractals, repetition, and self-similarity into her oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings. This fascination draws inspiration from both Persian artistic tradition and the unpredictable forces of nature.
Shadi Mahsa’s journey through the world of academia has played a crucial role in shaping her unique artistic voice. As a recipient of an MA in Fine Art from the renowned Chelsea University of Art, Shadi gained a wealth of knowledge that went beyond just technical skills. Her education at Chelsea was not only about mastering painting techniques but also about understanding the philosophy and theory behind art, exploring its various aspects.
The challenging curriculum at Chelsea University of Art encouraged Shadi to go beyond traditional boundaries, pushing her to experiment with different materials and styles. This academic experience sharpened her ability to effortlessly combine traditional Persian designs with modern expressions, creating a connection between cultures and periods in every artwork.
Before pursuing her MA, Shadi laid the groundwork for her studies at Kensington Chelsea College, where she obtained an HNC in Fine Art. This program provided her with essential techniques and a solid understanding of fine art principles. During this time, there was a strong emphasis on refining her skills and developing a personal style that would later be recognized for its uniqueness.
Key learnings during this period:
These educational experiences have undoubtedly influenced Shadi’s approach to art, enabling her to cultivate a style that is both technically polished and deeply expressive. The profound impact of her academic journey can be seen in how she explores complex themes with grace and insight, making each artwork a testament to her growth as an artist.
As an Iranian artist, my journey has taken me across the world, with several significant exhibitions that have influenced my career. Each exhibition not only showcased my work but also deepened my understanding of how cultural heritage and contemporary expression interact.
London holds a special place in my exhibition history. At the renowned ZARI Gallery, I discovered a platform that embraced the chaos theory intricately woven into my art. This gallery, located in the heart of London, provided me with an opportunity to connect with an audience that appreciated the blend of traditional Persian elements and modern artistic techniques.
In Tehran, the Etemad Gallery offered a contemplative space where my roots resonated deeply. Exhibiting in my homeland allowed me to delve into themes of identity and emotion, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Persian philosophy and art that has always influenced me. The response here was not just about admiration but also a reconnection with fellow Iranians who recognized pieces of their own stories reflected in my work.
My journeys took me to Sydney, where my involvement was part of a larger conversation within global art discussions. This experience broadened my perspectives, enabling me to see my work through the eyes of diverse international viewpoints.
A particularly unforgettable moment was being featured in the British Council’s Connect Project in Katowice. This initiative highlighted the universality of art, connecting cultures and promoting an exchange of ideas that went beyond geographical limits.
Each exhibition, from London’s ZARI Gallery to Tehran’s Etemad Gallery and beyond, has played a crucial role in shaping my artistic path. These experiences have not only enriched my practice but have also reinforced the importance of art as a universal language that communicates across borders and identities.
Shadi Mahsa’s artwork is a beautiful blend of various artistic themes that come together to create something truly unique. Each collection tells a story, exploring the connections between nature, emotions, and abstract concepts.
In these pieces, intricate patterns combine with vibrant color fields, evoking both the unpredictability of fractals and the meditative repetition found in traditional Persian motifs. These works bring energy and complexity to interiors, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world where chaos finds harmony. For example, the Golden Autumn – Abstract Nature Painting exemplifies this blend of abstract art and nature themes.
Here, branches twist into gold-lit labyrinths while blossoms spiral in kaleidoscopic profusion. The living world becomes a reflection of our subconscious mind, with each canvas inviting us to explore forests of possibility or find solace by rivers of memory.
In these works, vivid hues bloom across the surface—petals rendered with both reverence and experimentation. Emotion takes shape in graceful compositions: joy expressed through a burst of crimson, nostalgia captured in a shadowed violet. This is particularly evident in floral art, which transforms walls into vibrant landscapes, bridging city life with nature’s beauty.
Faces flicker with feeling; eyes become windows to unspoken dreams. Through subtle gestures and soulful expressions, these portraits capture fleeting moments—the ache of exile, the electricity of connection—that linger long after one looks away.
Every collection is a conversation between our inner landscapes and the outside world—a celebration of nature themes, emotional expression, and bold abstraction that knows no boundaries.
As an Iranian artist in the UK, my journey has been one of profound exploration and engagement with cultural identity. The vibrant and diverse London art scene has provided a rich tapestry for showcasing my work, allowing me to delve deeply into the confluence of Persian heritage and contemporary artistry.
My artwork is a dialogue between my Iranian roots and the cosmopolitan influences of London. Each piece becomes a canvas where traditional Persian motifs meet modern chaos theory, weaving stories that transcend borders.
Engaging with the Iranian diaspora in London has been instrumental in shaping my artistic narrative. Exhibitions and community events have served as platforms for shared experiences, fostering connections that inspire and inform my work.
Through participation in international exhibitions, I contribute to the global conversation on contemporary art. My pieces reflect not only personal narratives but also broader themes of displacement, identity, and belonging, resonating with audiences worldwide.
This intersection of cultures informs my creative process, enriching the visual language I use to express complex emotions and universal truths.
Art flourishes when it is accessible, and the vibrant city of London offers a myriad of opportunities for art lovers to acquire affordable pieces. Shadi Mahsa’s work stands as a testament to this accessibility, providing an array of oil paintings for sale that cater to diverse tastes and spaces.
For those seeking large wall art or personalized commissions, Shadi’s portfolio encompasses:
Each piece can be customized, ensuring a perfect fit for any setting or personal preference.
Shadi Mahsa ensures her artwork remains within reach by offering various options at different price points. This commitment to affordability does not compromise quality; instead, it opens doors for more individuals to experience the joy and inspiration that original art brings into their lives.
Explore London’s vibrant art scene with budget-friendly pieces for all collectors. In this dynamic marketplace, Shadi’s offerings include everything from small, intimate pieces to grand statements of creativity, all designed to resonate deeply with collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The journey as an Iranian artist in London has been a profound exploration of identity and artistic expression. The fusion of Persian heritage with contemporary techniques creates a unique tapestry, resonating deeply within the art community.
Support Diverse Voices: Embrace and celebrate the rich contributions of Iranian artists and other diverse voices in the contemporary art scene.
Discover More: Follow my artistic journey, explore current collections, and consider bringing a piece of this vibrant dialogue into your own space. Your support enriches the global art narrative.
