An Exhibition of Contemporary Paintings from Iran
Grand Opening of Tara Gallery
October 5 – November 14, 2013
Opening Reception: Saturday, October 5, 6-9 pm

Trees of My Homeland celebrates the Grand Opening of Tara Gallery, home of contemporary Iranian art in Los Angeles. The exhibition is sponsored by the American Foundation for Contemporary Iranian Art (AFCIA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting Iranian art.

About TREES OF MY HOMELAND:

TREES OF MY HOMELAND is an exhibition of contemporary Iranian paintings. It celebrates the Grand Opening of Tara Gallery in Los Angeles and is sponsored by the American Foundation for Contemporary Iranian Art (AFCIA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting contemporary Iranian art.

TREES OF MY HOMELAND celebrates the vitality of Iranian artists who have, for the last three decades, produced magnificent works of art and have only recently found their well-deserved place in the international art scene. The exhibition is organized to introduce the work of these talented artists to both the American public and the Iranian community in the U.S.

For Iranians, trees bring back the memories of an annual outing on Sizdah Bedar, the 13th day of Norouz (Iranian New Year). There is an old belief that on this day, which corresponds to April Fools’ Day, homes are taken over by bad spirits and people should go out on picnics. Families pack food baskets and leave town to find picnic areas, usually under patches of trees. For kids, Sizdah Bedar is a very joyous and anticipated day. Thus, trees have a special place in our hearts.

TREES OF MY HOMELAND is organized by Ms. Homa Taraji, director of Tara Gallery and co-founder of AFCIA, in cooperation with Ms. Lili Golestan, director of Golestan Gallery in Tehran. The show features 50 paintings by 12 artists who currently live and work in Iran.