Sarvenaz Farsian poetry rugs
From February 12 to July 31, 2025, La Halle Saint Pierre presents a landmark exhibition: L’Art Brut d’Iran [Outsider Art in Iran].
Artistes Actuels was fortunate enough to meet artist Savenaz Farsian, whose quasi-abstract black-and-white universe stands out among the colorful works associated with Persian folk art.
Sarvenaz Farsian lives and works in Teheran, and her work is characterized by meticulousness, detail and precision. Her calligraphic ornaments are silently infinite, like ritual writing or the refined weaving of profound landscapes.
Her artistic approach, though spontaneous and instinctive, is almost meditative. Indeed, her creations start from a single point and unfold in abstract labyrinths that can reach several meters in length.
She comes from a family renowned for its jewelry.
Are you still working in jewelry design?
I haven’t completely stopped, and it remains one of my interests. However, due to my commitment to the two galleries I collaborate with, I need to focus more on my paintings. As a result, I spend less time on jewelry design and creation.
When you were working in the jewelry industry, did you consider yourself an artist?
Yes, because following traditional and professional jewelry-making techniques never interested me. Instead, creating jewelry based on my own concepts and ideas was important to me. This approach was often mocked by those I worked alongside, but I truly believed in and enjoyed what I was doing. That belief allowed me to create unconventional pieces.
Did you feel that the format of jewelry design limited your creativity?
If a design was commissioned by a client, then yes, I felt restricted. But when I had complete creative freedom, I didn’t experience any limitations.
Your designs, due to their abstract nature, are less associated with raw art.What are your thoughts on this?
Every artist finds a way to express themselves; my way of externalizing is abstract. However, throughout my career, I have also created thematic works.
The art of Sarvenaz Farsian: ritual calligraphy, ornamental embroidery or poetic weaving?
How do you shape your designs?
They begin completely unpredictably—I start working on any part of the canvas or paper that feels right at the moment. I create different textures without having a specific design in mind. The contrasts of light and dark emerge instinctively and spontaneously, influenced by the pressure I apply to my tools. In the end, when I look at my work, I sometimes see forms that even surprise me.
Do you use color in your work?
Years ago, I used color in my works, but over time, black became dominant because it resonated more with my emotions while creating. However, recently, I have found color intriguing again and feel the need for a new challenge—perhaps incorporating color could provide that challenge.
What tools do you use for your designs?
I use a 0.1 or 0.2 rapidograph (a very precise technical pen often used in technical drawing)
How do you feel when you spend hours drawing?
It feels like a sanctuary—almost like a place of worship for me. When I am working, I completely lose track of time.
Among the artists featured in the exhibition “L’Art Brut de l’Iran”, two others create in monochrome: Farnood Esbati [1993- Tehran] with his airy lines and loops, and Davood Koochaki [1939-2020] with his primitive, hybrid creatures.
In silence and concentration, Sarvenaz Farsian traces her intense inner world, echoing oriental ornament or sacred drawing.
Her poetic carpets invite meditative immersion.
