TEHRAN -- Art critic Hamid Suri called Shiva’s artworks a reflection of recent cultural events that have occurred in Iran over the past few years.

Suri, who attended a ceremony for the 70th birthday of Qobad Shiva at the Ist gallery on Sunday, said that the fact that Shiva cares about his environment is manifest in his works.
The Ist Gallery is hosting an exhibition of graphic design created by Iranian artist Qobad Shiva on the occasion of his 70th birthday. Several artists attended the opening ceremony of the showcase on Sunday.
“At a time when Iranian symbolism has become a marketing ploy for many artists, his works contain authentic Persian themes,” Suri added.
Shiva is against formulas stability and linear progressions in his works, which originate during his thoughtful moments. In this way, the audience can establish a connection with his creations, he added.
At the ceremony, renowned painter Parviz Kalantari also spoke about Shiva’s artworks and his methods.
“Most contemporary graphic designers in Iran are influenced by Western artists but one can trace the ancient Persian painting and Persian calligraphy in Shiva’s artworks,” he said.
Kalantari said that Shiva’s works are depictions of his own time and the society in which he lives.
Shiva is a member of the Society of Alliance Graphique Internationale (AGI) and is the director of his own institution Ghobad Shiva Art and Cultural Institution.
A total of 43 illustrations, designs and collages created by Shiva are hanging on the walls of the Ist Gallery and some of his posters are being screened in the form of video art on a wall outside the gallery.
The showcase will run until February 1 at the gallery located at No.2, Golestan valley at the intersection of Shahid Ahmadpur Ave., in the Darakeh District.
Photo: Iranian graphic designer Qobad Shiva cuts his 70th birthday cake during a ceremony held by his fans at the Ist Gallery in Tehran on January 23, 2011. (ISNA/Saman Aqvami)