Bahman Mossavar-Rahmani - Art
" In a renaissance of contemporary Iranian art, Bahman Mossavar-Rahmani, founder and CIO of UAS Asset Management, sits down with Barron's Sonia Talati to discuss his passion for collecting art that speaks its mind. " Bahman Mossavar-Rahmani - Barrons.
Siah Armajani - Night Letter - collection of Bahman Mossavar-Rahmani
Siah Armajani's "Night Letter #1" from 1957 is a fascinating early work by the renowned Iranian-American artist. Created using a mix of watercolor, ink, and wax seals on paper, this intimate piece reflects Armajani's experimentation with various media and his developing artistic style. The title "Night Letter" suggests a sense of secrecy and urgency, as if the artwork contains a hidden message that needed to be conveyed under the cover of darkness. The use of wax seals reinforces this idea, as they were traditionally used to secure and authenticate important documents. Armajani was born in Tehran in 1939 and later immigrated to the United States, where he became a pioneering figure in conceptual and public art. His work often explores themes of exile, cultural identity, and the relationship between art and politics. As an early piece created when Armajani was just 18 years old, "Night Letter #1" offers a glimpse into the artist's formative years and his early artistic interests. The inclusion of this work in the collection of Bahman and Yasmin Mossavar-Rahmani is significant. As prominent Iranian-American collectors, they have likely sought out pieces that resonate with their own cultural background and experiences. By acquiring this early Armajani work, they are helping to preserve and promote the legacy of an important Iranian-American artist. Overall, "Night Letter #1" is a compelling example of Siah Armajani's early artistic explorations and a valuable addition to the Mossavar-Rahmanis' collection of Iranian art. It showcases the artist's versatility with different media and hints at the conceptual depth that would characterize his later work, while also serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges and complexities of the immigrant experience.