TEHRAN- The veteran Iranian painter, illustrator and animator Ali-Akbar Sadeqi will be commemorated in a ceremony on Friday for his lifetime achievement in the world of painting. 

Organized by the Society for the National Heritage of Iran, the event will be attended by a number of scholars, experts and artists and is open to the public, ISNA reported on Tuesday. 

Born in 1937 and a distinguished graduate of the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Tehran, Ali-Akbar Sadeqi ranks among Iran's foremost surrealist painters. His artworks, deeply rooted in the myths and epic narratives of Persian literature, harmoniously blend Western surrealism with Eastern spirituality, elevating traditional themes to a realm of unique imagination. Sadeqi mastery has led to his works being preserved in museums globally, most notably the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art (TMoCA), which honored him in 2018 by dedicating its entire exhibition space to showcase his extensive body of work.

From a young age, Sadeqi was captivated by the rich narratives of the Shahnameh, Ferdowsi's epic masterpiece, which transported him into a world of heroic figures and legendary tales. The vivid imagery of Siavash riding noble steeds, the bravery of Rostam, and the valiant deeds of mythical heroes deeply influenced Sadeqi’s artistic vision. This lyrical universe of legends profoundly shapes his worldview and recurs in his art, often reflecting the intricate aesthetics of traditional Persian miniature paintings and popular forms like coffeehouse art, reverse glass paintings, and lithographs.

Before entering university in 1958, Sadeqi began teaching painting in high schools during the 1950s. His early explorations with watercolor transitioned into oil painting shortly after, as he pursued a unique and innovative style inspired by traditional Iranian portraiture and coffeehouse art. Rooted in the Qajar tradition, Sadeqi’s painting developed a distinctive flair characterized by surreal elements reminiscent of stained-glass art. His initial works spanned graphics and illustrations, showcasing his versatility and keen artistic eye.

Following the Iranian Revolution in 1979, Sadeqi intensified his artistic endeavors. In 1989, he established the Sabz Gallery, which became a vital platform for displaying the works of contemporary Iranian artists until its closure in 2003. Over the past 60 years, Sadeqi has consistently contributed to Iran's artistic landscape, remaining an influential figure in both painting and graphic illustration.

In January and February 2018, a comprehensive retrospective exhibition featured over 200 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, illustrations, and select animated films. The event at the TMoCA celebrated S Sadeqi’s artistic journey and his myriad contributions to the field. Another significant exhibition took place in October 2016 at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in collaboration with Shirin Gallery. His presence was also felt at Art Dubai Modern in March 2016, where his works garnered international acclaim.

Sadeqi's painting style, often described as Iranian surrealism, marries traditional Persian artistic forms with dynamic, modern interpretations. His works are infused with Persian cultural motifs, lively compositions, and a distinct mythical essence characterized by vibrant colors and expansive canvases. This style draws heavily from the iconography and themes of the Qajar school, made famous through Coffeehouse paintings, which often depicted heroic narratives.

The meticulous detailing found in Sadeqi’s paintings evokes the rich traditions of miniature art, often portraying heroes enmeshed in their internal struggles, rather than visible battles against external evils. Through pieces like “The Hanged Coat” and “Torture Armchair,” a profound emotional resonance emerges—capturing the duality of defeat and resilience. These self-reflective works highlight the artist's connection with his characters, illustrating a timeless struggle that resonates deeply with viewers.

Moreover, Sadeqi's surreal creations extend beyond paint; he is also known for his animated movies, including acclaimed works such as “Flowers Storm,” “Malek Khorshid,” and more—further enriching his artistic legacy. 

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