TEHRAN -- Veteran sculptor Parviz Tanavoli here Wednesday said the European and the U.S. are showing more interest in the art and culture of the Middle East and Iran.

Speaking to the student news agency ISNA, he noted Europe and the United States were ignorant of art and culture of the Middle East and Iran in the past, adding, “They have concluded if they do not understand our culture, they fail to learn more.”

Tanavoli referred to the increasing number of exhibitions of art and civilization of the Islamic countries during the recent months, calling for holding further exhibits.

He, however, believes the exhibition organizers aim to make their people more familiar with Muslims and their art and civilization.

British students are craving for learning more about the Muslims’ culture, said the sculptor adding their visits to the recent exhibition of the British exhibition, “Word into Art”, which was an astonishing move, prove it.

Tanavoli, who attended the opening ceremony of the exhibit on May 18, expressed his regret that no Iranian official was present to see their warm welcome.

“Word into Art” is a new exhibition that highlights the contemporary art of the Middle East, reflecting the identity, politics, and the diverse artistic heritage of the region.

The exhibition focuses on different ways artists engage and experiment with Arabic script.

Six Iranian artists, including Tanavoli, are displaying works in the exhibit, which will run through September 3.