When contemplating the role Nature plays in Art, a quote by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle comes to mind, one that quite succinctly describes the relationship: art takes nature as its model.

Artists throughout history have been inspired by what they observe in nature, not least the richness of colors, hues and textures, and intricate natural geometries, all of which have become, at one point or another, the basis for artistic creation.

In Between Leaves brings together two visual artists, Anahita Ghazanfari and Haris Rashid, for whom their affinity for Nature features prominently in their individual bodies of work.

Originally from Iran, where weave art plays an important yet sometimes overlooked role in everyday life, Anahita Ghazanfari draws on this rich cultural heritage, much of in turn inspired by nature, to create snapshots of memories immortalized in the semi-abstract patterns of her artworks.

Haris Rashid’s body of work delves into the various aspects of the close relationship between man and Nature, based on the premise that all of life is an interconnected symbiosis, and that there is an underlying unity of everything in Nature.

While Anahita and Haris have exhibited together previously in other group shows, In Between Leaves marks the first time their common love for Nature is explored in a manner more focused and at length, through their own unique individual perspective and approach.

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This marks the first time Anahita is exhibiting with Artemis Art

Anahita Ghazanfari’s passion for art is something that has been cultivated since early in her life, nurtured by the belief her archeologist father holds that self-knowledge comes from an understanding of one’s past, encouraging her to learn, understand and appreciate her country’s culture and traditions. This encouragement included allowing her to express her art freely, including on the walls of their home, and exposure to history books, poems, and museums. These experiences still feature prominently in her work today.

Rugs and weaving have played an important role in the life of Iranian people, and is always a witness of “everydayness”. Particular patterns, symbols and colors are chosen for their belief oriented life-protecting and life-enhancing attributes. One of the most common themes in Persian rugs is Floral. The image of a lush garden is one that deeply rooted in both the religious and cultural heritage of  Persian design, alluding to the eternal Heavenly gardens of the afterlife.

Anahita’s works are deeply inspired by this heritage, her works immersing the viewer in what she considers to be a living and breathing historical moment in time, captured for posterity in her semi-abstract works.

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Previous art fairs & exhibitions (selected)

Young Art Taipei 2017
We Are 5
Singapore Contemporary 2017 (installation commission)
Ningbo International City Arts Expo
AArt Citizen Art Shanghai 2016
Presence
Vice Versa
Young Art Taipei 2016
Art Kaohsiung 2015
CAFFA 2015 Art Project

Haris Rashid, a young visual artist we have been showing since debuting with Artemis Art in 2015, has always been inspired by nature, an element that features prominently in his art. In this series of new works, Haris explores the connection between humankind and Nature, delving into the similarities we have with what may be found in our natural surroundings.

It is the artist’s belief that nature connects us all, and is through nature that we may ultimately find our inner selves. Expanding on the idea that throughout human history, nature has been the source of healing, and is a conduit through which we regain a balance in life, he embarks on a journey of self-exploration in relation to nature.

Ultimately, Haris believes that there is a close interdependence between humans and nature, all part of a universal flow that emanates from and permeates through all creation. We are one with Nature, as Nature should be one with us. To quote the well-known Sufi mystic and poet Jalal ad-din Rumi, “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” 

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