Roya Ghassemi is an Iranian-German artist and women’s rights activist known for her evocative and powerful portrayals of female figures set in dreamlike and magical spaces. Her art, deeply connected to nature and the emotive power of color, captures the soul’s journey to freedom and reflects the inner journeys of oppressed women worldwide. Featured in prestigious exhibitions such as Miami Art Basel and NFT Liverpool, Ghassemi’s work continues to touch and inspire.
In this interview, we explore the spiritual undertones of Roya’s work and her personal definition of feminism. What inspires her symbolic use of nudity in art? How does she perceive the importance of body-type diversity? Read on to learn about the intricate process behind her latest creations for MakersPlace and find out the subtle symbologies present therein.
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Brady Walker: Your work carries heavy spiritual undertones. How would you describe your own spirituality? What, if any, belief systems resonate with you?
Roya Ghassemi: My spirituality is centered on delving deeply into my inner self and uncovering my true essence as a being in this universe. It’s about discovering the purpose of life and feeling a profound connection to nature. I believe that every person is a part of a higher intelligence, and our goal is to listen to the wisdom we inherently possess. This journey of self-discovery and connection helps me understand my place in the world and align with the greater intelligence that we are all part of.
BW: Given your background, what does feminism mean to you?
RG: As a woman who grew up in Iran under compulsory rules and beliefs, I have always sought freedom. To me, feminism embodies the pursuit of equality and freedom. It underscores the importance of women’s autonomy, empowerment, and the right to make choices about their own lives and bodies.
BW: Can you explain the significance of nudity in your work?
RG: My purpose is to visualize freedom in my art, and I believe nudity is an artful reflection of freedom and powerfully embodies this essence.
BW: What’s your view on body-type diversity in art? Your work tends to depict a very specific view of the female form.
RG: Body type diversity in art is essential for celebrating the richness and uniqueness of human form, it’s important to celebrate different body types to challenge social norms. It also empowers individuals to embrace and accept their own bodies. I believe every type and shape of body is unique and beautiful. My art reflects my personal experiences and is inspired by my own body, which is why you’ll notice a specific body type in my work.
BW: Which artists have had the greatest influence on your style and which have had the greatest influence on your work’s content?
RG: The artist who has had the greatest influence on my style is James Jean, as his approach to form and color is inspiring to me. In terms of content, Frida Kahlo has been the most influential, inspiring me to infuse my work with deep personal narratives and explore themes of identity and emotion.
BW: What role do titles play in your work?
RG: Titles provide context and deeper insight into the themes and emotions I am exploring. They act as a bridge between the viewer and the artwork, offering a glimpse into my intentions and guiding the interpretation of the piece.
BW: Can you tell me about the pieces of yours that MakersPlace will be exhibiting in June? Why did you create these pieces?
RG: I’ve created three pieces that reflect my personal journey through life. Recently, I have faced challenging times, and my only solace has been transforming my pain into beauty.
As Touran Mirhadi, the esteemed Iranian author and teacher, wisely said: “Turn great sadness into great work.” For me, expressing my feelings on canvas has always been a vital part of my healing process, which is why I poured my heart into these creations.
Each piece is a page from the diary of my life, capturing both the highs and the lows. It is essential for me to preserve these moments so that, in the future, I can look back and remember the full spectrum of my experiences.
BW: How were they made?
RG: They are all made digitally. I use Procreate usually to create my digital art.
BW: You use a lot of symbolism in your work. Is there anything viewers should look for in these three new works?
RG: In these three works, several symbols are woven into the fabric of the compositions, each serving to guide the rhetorical viewer towards a deeper understanding of their meanings and representations:
In the piece Truth Awakens, the chrysanthemum flower is used as her hair, symbolizing life and rebirth, a representation deeply rooted in Asian culture. This flower also embodies love, joy, and loyalty, adding layers of emotional depth to the artwork.
Colors play a pivotal role in conveying emotions within my paintings. Red signifies a spectrum of intense feelings — pain, passion, love, and anger — each hue a brushstroke of human experience. Purple, on the other hand, symbolizes emotionality, enlightenment, and femininity, imbuing the work with a sense of spiritual and personal growth.
Butterflies, delicate and ephemeral, are powerful symbols of transformation and rebirth, representing the perpetual cycles of change and renewal.
In A Beautiful Dream, the interplay of black and white symbolizes the ancient concept of yin and yang, reflecting the essential balance between shadow and light. This duality speaks to the harmony and equilibrium found within contrasting forces. Through these symbols, the viewer is invited to explore the rich tapestry of meanings embedded in each piece, uncovering the profound narratives that lie beneath the surface.
BW: How is your art-making practice expanding? In what directions?
RG: My art-making practice is expanding in several exciting directions. I’m experimenting with new mediums and techniques to push the boundaries of my creative expression. This includes integrating digital elements with traditional methods, allowing for a fusion of the classic and contemporary. Additionally, I’m delving deeper into symbolic storytelling, using a richer palette of colors and motifs to convey more nuanced emotions and narratives. This exploration of symbolism is enabling me to create more layered and complex works that invite viewers to engage with them on multiple levels.
Collaborations with other artists are also broadening my artistic horizons, introducing me to diverse perspectives and inspiring new ideas. Furthermore, I’m increasingly incorporating themes of cultural identity and personal introspection into my work, making it more reflective of my own experiences and the world around me. Overall, my practice is evolving towards greater experimentation, deeper symbolism and surrealism.
BW: I’ve read that you mentor women entering the arts. Can you tell me about this practice?
RG: Mentoring women entering the arts is a deeply fulfilling part of my practice. I provide personalized guidance on artistic techniques, career development, and navigating the art world. This includes refining skills, building portfolios, and networking. I also try to create opportunities for them to exhibit their work and gain visibility. This might involve organizing group exhibitions, facilitating introductions to galleries and curators, or promoting their work through social media.
Additionally, I emphasize the importance of self-care and resilience, equipping them with emotional tools to sustain their careers. Ultimately, my goal is to empower these talented women with the knowledge, resources, and confidence they need to succeed in the arts. Seeing them grow and flourish is incredibly rewarding.
BW: Are there any quotes you live by?
RG: “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” – Rumi
BW: What kind of work would you have made had you been born 100 years earlier?
RG: Had I been born 100 years earlier, I believe my work would have taken a path much like that of Vincent Van Gogh, whose art deeply resonates with me. I would have been drawn to landscape art and self-portraits, infusing them with the vibrant beauty of flowers and elements from nature, capturing the essence of both the world around me and the spirit within.
