Alireza Shojaian is an incredible artist from Iran who is living in Beirut. One of our recent guests – Munir – was kind enough to get us in touch with him! We were destined to talk to him, as it turns out that we had seen his work in New York City last year at Mark for Redaction (check out the episode from that event here: https://thequeerarabs.com/podcast/episode-37-in-english-mark-for-redaction). Alireza’s queer-centered art provokes emotions that are lasting and that will linger in the back of your mind for a long time after encountering it.
An example is “Season Salad” confronts the painful reality for many people who feel disconnected or disoriented with their bodies due to their sexuality or identity. So many of us can relate to this. This series will validate those feelings in a very powerful way.
Follow Alireza on Instagram @alirezash0jaian
Here’s a great article about his work: https://wearequeerhere.com/queerart
Hamed Sinno et un de ses Frères’ Acrylic and Color Pencil on Wood Board
Photo credit: Tareck Raffoul