WHERE WOMEN, NATURE, AND SPIRITUALITY CONVERGE: THE ART OF MOZHGAN AFRISHAM

Interview with Mozhgan Afrisham - The Persian Artist Blending Tribal Symbolism and Spirituality

Mozhgan Afrisham is a Persian contemporary artist based in the UAE whose work bridges cultural memory, spirituality, and emotional expression. With a background in Art & Architecture and a creative journey shaped by living across multiple countries, her practice reflects a rich multicultural dialogue. Working primarily in vibrant mixed media, Mozhgan draws inspiration from tribal traditions, nature, Persian symbolism, and the spiritual universe. Her artworks, often centered on powerful women’s portraits, go beyond visual beauty to explore inner emotions, identity, and healing. Through both her studio practice and mindfulness-based art workshops, she positions art as a transformative and therapeutic experience, rooted in heritage yet resonating with a global contemporary voice.

Interview Questionnaire:

1. Who are you?  I am Mozhgan Afrisham, a Persian artist based in the UAE, with a deep passion for art that reflects my multicultural experiences. I hold a master's degree, and studied Art & Architecture in Malaysia, and my journey through various countries has shaped my creative vision. My work is a blend of vibrant mixed media Mediums, influenced by tribal traditions, symbolism, and the spiritual universe. Through my art, I aim to connect with the inner emotions of people while also incorporating mindfulness and therapeutic practices into my workshops. My creations are a reflection of my background, My Persian heritage, and my dedication to self-expression through art.

2. How would you describe your artwork?  What led you to pursue a career in art? My artwork is a vibrant fusion of women’s portraits, nature, tribal symbolism, and spiritual themes. I aim to go beyond surface beauty, painting not just the outer image but the inner emotions and essence of the subject. My pieces are bold, therapeutic, and deeply connected to the world’s tribal cultures and beliefs. The use of mixed media mediums allows me to explore different textures and layers, blending modern techniques with traditional influences, including Persian calligraphy and tribal motifs. Art has always been a part of who I am. Growing up, I was surrounded by a rich cultural heritage, and I was captivated by how art can convey emotions and stories in a universal language. My studies in Art & Design solidified my passion, and after exploring different countries and cultures, I realized that art is not just a career but a calling. It allows me to connect with people on a deeper level, offering them a window into my inner world while also encouraging them to find peace, mindfulness, and inspiration in their own lives.

3. What themes or concepts inspire your artwork the most? Themes of nature, spirituality, and tribal culture deeply inspire my artwork. I’m fascinated by the richness of tribal traditions, their symbolism, and the sense of unity and strength within these communities. I often blend these influences with elements of the spiritual universe, focusing on the emotional and intuitive aspects of creation. Women’s portraits are also central to my work, where I aim to capture not just their external beauty but their inner worlds—reflecting strength, vulnerability, and a deep connection to nature. The idea of harmony between the physical and spiritual realms is a recurring theme, as well as the exploration of identity, heritage, and the collective human experience. These concepts allow me to create art that resonates with viewers on a personal and therapeutic level, while also reflecting my Persian roots and my passion for mindful creativity.

4. Could you walk us through your creative process, from ideation to execution? My creative process is an intuitive journey that blends mindfulness with artistic expression. It often starts with inspiration from nature, message, or spiritual concepts. I begin by immersing myself in the theme, sometimes through research or meditation, allowing the ideas to flow organically. Sketching plays an important role in bringing those ideas to life, where I map out the emotions and energy I want to convey. Once the concept takes shape, I transition into the digital realm, where I use tools like Procreate and Photoshop to refine my vision. This phase involves a lot of experimentation with colors, textures, and layering to create the desired atmosphere. When I feel the digital artwork is complete, I paint it on canvas and begin working with mixed media, adding materials, textures, or even Persian calligraphy to give the piece more depth and character. Each artwork is a journey from inner emotion to physical manifestation. Whether it’s a portrait of a woman intertwined with nature or an abstract composition, the process is deeply mindful. I believe in allowing the work to evolve naturally, guided by the energy of the subject matter, and ensuring that each piece resonates with a sense of purpose and untold message.

5. Who are some artists or movements that have influenced your work? My work draws from a range of influences, blending traditional and modern elements. Tribal art and its deep symbolism have always resonated with me, especially in expressing themes of identity and spiritual connection. Surrealism, with its ability to bridge reality and imagination, has also shaped how I explore deeper emotional expression in my work. Artists like Frida Kahlo, with her powerful use of symbolism and emotion, have impacted my portrayal of women and their inner worlds. Henri Matisse, particularly his bold use of color and simple yet expressive forms, has inspired the vibrant and dynamic elements in my art.  Additionally, Persian miniature art and calligraphy continue to influence my style, allowing me to merge cultural heritage with contemporary techniques. These diverse influences help me create art that reflects both the external and internal human experience.

6. Can you discuss your biggest success since starting your artistic journey? One of my biggest successes has been gaining recognition both within the UAE and internationally. Being nominated for the Artistic Luminary Awards by Luminary 2024 for the van Eyck Award for Most Outstanding Painter in Contemporary Art has been a significant milestone. I’ve had the privilege to showcase my work in prestigious exhibitions, including Dubai World Art, and many more great exhibitions, and participate in eco-friendly live art events. Additionally, my art has been featured in media interviews and newspaper, where I’ve had the opportunity to share my artistic journey with a broader audience. Participating in these platforms has allowed me to connect with people and spread the message of mindful creativity. These experiences, along with the chance to inspire others through art therapy workshops, have been some of the most rewarding successes in my career.

7. What projects are you working on currently? And what is your dream project? Currently, I’m working on a range of exciting projects that blend art with mindfulness and community engagement. Planning on series of art workshops. I’m also planning a series of digital art workshops and courses for both adults and kids, integrating creativity with mindfulness practices. As for my dream project, I envision creating a large-scale installation that combines traditional Persian art with modern digital and modern techniques. This project would involve immersive, interactive elements that allow viewers to experience the fusion of past and present, connecting with the art on both a visual and emotional level. I dream of this project being exhibited in major cultural centers around the world, creating a dialogue between diverse artistic traditions and contemporary art.

8. What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting their journey? My advice to aspiring artists is to stay true to your unique voice and vision. The art world can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to focus on what genuinely inspires and motivates you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mediums and techniques; every trial and error is a step towards discovering your own style. Networking and connecting with other artists can also be incredibly valuable. Attend workshops, join art communities, and engage with others in the field. These connections can provide support, feedback, and opportunities for collaboration. Equally important is to embrace both the successes and the challenges. Every setback is a learning experience that contributes to your growth as an artist. Keep pushing boundaries, stay creative and curious, and most importantly, make time for self-care and mindfulness. Art is not just about creating; it’s about understanding and expressing your inner world, so take care of yourself along the way.