TEHRAN-Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art (TMoCA) is hosting an exhibition of artworks by the late Iranian artist Reza Mafi (1943-1982) after over four decades after his passing.

A collection of more than 100 pieces of calligraphy and calligraphic paintings created by Mafi is on display at the museum, ILNA reported.

One of the most celebrated Iranian calligraphers and a key figure in the 1970s, Mafi began his artistic career by following the Persian nasta'liq tradition. However, with an avant-garde vision, Mafi soon began experimenting with the calligraphic painting style, which had gained significance amongst the calligraphers of the 1960s and 1970s.

Imaginatively and without breaking the fundamental rules of Persian calligraphy, Mafi created semi-abstract works on paper and canvas, which quickly caught the attention of the critics.

In the late stages of his artistic career, the artist began creating depth in his calligraphic works by layering letters and words. Inspired by the Timurid luster tiles, with deep carved calligraphic inscriptions and luminous glazes, Mafi introduced a modern version made of polystyrene, often glazed with turquoise, red, and other bright colors.

Mafi's work has been offered at different auctions multiple times, with realized prices ranging from $5,000 to $475,000, depending on the size and medium of the artwork. 

The exhibition of Mafi’s calligraphy and calligraphic paintings will run until June 30 at the TMoCA, located next to Laleh Park, North Kargar St.

SS/SAB