Press Release
O Gallery presents “The Light We Behold”, an exhibition of recent works by Shima Esfandiari (b. 1977 Tehran).
Drawing serves as the foundation and central focus of Esfandiari’s works, with light playing a pivotal role both visually and conceptually. Rather than direct illumination, light in her collection emerges through the interplay of shadows created by layers of different kinds of paper and white cloth, reflecting her interpretation of the duality of darkness and light.
Darkness and suffering, contrasted with light and awareness, form opposing yet complementary elements that are delicately balanced and intertwined. The white cloths of Tanzif simultaneously evoke a sense of injury (wound) and fragility while symbolizing the light that pierces through the gray tones of her compositions.
In continuation of her previous collection "After the Dark", the artist has used more female figures in this body of work. She represents forms with simplicity and expressive clarity, ensuring that the added lines and fabrics work in harmony to convey this intricate balance.