TEHRAN – Veteran sculptor Parviz Tanavoli was very surprised by the artworks displayed by his students saying they are beyond his expectations.

Attending the opening ceremony on Friday at the Khaneh-Honar Gallery, Tanavoli said that the artworks are conceptual rather than decorative.
The students have only had a single art course taught by Tanavoli and this is their first exhibit.
“Holding such exhibits is very good news and present hope for the future. It reveals how talented and gifted young artists are that need to be discovered,” he told the Persian service of ISNA.
“These sculptures have been created after just one course at an art institute and none of them have had prior formal academic training. I hope the universities get a move on and make changes in their curricula,” Tanavoli stated.
Parviz Tanavoli is one of the pioneers of modern sculpture in Iran. In order to understand Tanavoli’s works, one must be aware of the fact that he has explored, analyzed and absorbed the rich visual, literary, and craftsmanship traditions of Iran.
It is virtually impossible to separate his work as an artist from his passionate engagement as a researcher, teacher, collector, and author.
His sculptures are placed in several locations inside and outside the country and some of them have found their way into international auctions, bringing fame for the artist.
Sculptor Mehrdad Samsami, also attending the opening ceremony, regarded such exhibits as a good starting point in the country for aspiring sculpture artists.
According to the gallery curator Maryam Fakhimi, a selection of 70 sculptures have been put on sale, part of which aims to raise funds for projects dedicated to the United Nations’ World Food Program.
The exhibit will run though until December 15 at the gallery located on Shariati Ave., Near Sadr Bridge