Ali Asghar Mortezaee

Meet Ali Asghar Mortezaee

Born in 1967 in the ancient city of Hamedan, Iran, Ali Asghar Mortezaee has cultivated a remarkable artistic journey that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with poetic expression. Educated in his hometown and holding a B.A. in English Literature from Shiraz University, Ali’s love for art is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage.

For many years, he honed his skills in wood carving, creating intricate tableaux and decorative pieces that reflect the beauty and history of Iranian art. His artistic prowess has been showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions, both in Iran and across the globe. Notable international exhibitions include venues in Algeria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Indonesia, India, France, and Albania, where he has shared his vision with a diverse audience.

The Concept of Poetic Furniture

Driven by a desire to innovate and express his appreciation for beauty, Ali envisioned a unique concept: poetic furniture. This innovative idea combines the elegance of furniture design with the profound emotions of poetry. He selected two of the sweetest love poems and several quatrains from the renowned Iranian poet Hafez, skillfully carving them into his furniture in both Persian and English.

From the front, viewers are greeted with the lyrical beauty of the Persian text, while the English translations on the reverse side invite deeper reflection. Each piece of furniture embodies original Iranian arts, drawing inspiration from various historical eras. Techniques employed include wood carving, reticulation, calligraphy, mosaic wood carving, and engraving, all harmoniously integrated to create a stunning aesthetic.

The Experience of Sitting in Poetry

Ali’s poetic furniture comprises two sets of nine-seater pieces, crafted from beech wood and walnut, respectively. The calligraphy on each set is executed with exquisite detail, inviting those who sit upon them to immerse themselves in a garden of romance and emotion. As one relaxes on this furniture, they are transported to a fantasy world where each piece softly whispers poetic verses, evoking feelings of love, connection, and noble human values.

The creation of these unique pieces took eight years of dedication, patience, and an unwavering passion for his craft. Ali hopes that as you engage with his work, you too will feel the joy and inspiration that fueled his artistic journey.

Connect with Ali Asghar Mortezaee

Ali invites you to explore his poetic furniture and join him in celebrating the intersection of art and poetry. Your feedback and interaction are invaluable to him as he continues to create and innovate.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://mortezaeeuniquefurniture.com/
• Instagram: ali_asghar_mortezaee

Let the beauty of his work transport you to a world where art and poetry intertwine, enriching the human experience.

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Please ask your questions in the comments section.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did you start your wood carving journey?
A: I began my wood carving journey in 1994. I learned the basics from a relative in Malayer and gradually gained experience over time. My main teacher has been experience itself.

Q: Can you tell us about your exhibition history?
A: I’ve participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions both within Iran and internationally. Notable exhibitions include Paris, France; Algiers, Algeria; Almaty, Kazakhstan; Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; Jakarta, Indonesia; and New Delhi, India. I also had an electronic exhibition in the USA. If needed, I can provide documentation for these events. I’ve received many certificates of appreciation at these exhibitions.

Q: What is unique about your furniture pieces?
A: This is the first time that the poems of Hafez, along with their English translations, have been carved onto furniture. This makes them unique not just in Iran, but globally.

Q: Who inspires your work?
A: As I previously practiced calligraphy, I drew inspiration from many prominent masters of the craft. I have a particular admiration for the works of Master Kabeeli Khansari.

Q: What tools do you use in your artistry?
A: I utilize both electric and hand tools. Electric tools include drills, jigsaws, and mini grinders. Hand tools consist of various chisels, carving hammers, files, sandpaper, and clamps.

Q: How long does it take to create a piece?
A: The time required depends on the complexity of the work. Simpler pieces can take from a week to several months, while more intricate works, like my two sets of furniture, took eight years to complete.

Q: What challenges do you face in your art?
A: The rising costs of materials and the current economic challenges in our society have made it difficult for people to afford art. Additionally, there is a lack of support from government authorities in terms of marketing and financial assistance.

Q: What techniques did you employ in your recent work?
A: The specific techniques I used include carving, lattice work, inlaid carving, and engraving.

Q: What motivates you to create your art?
A: My love for this art form and my deep admiration for the poetry of Hafez inspire me to create. The scent of wood and the intricate designs are incredibly captivating, drawing me in constantly. The desire to see the final result is a strong driving force for me.

Q: What message do you wish to convey through your artwork?
A: Alongside the beauty of my works, I aim to share the wisdom and advice of Hafez, which is timeless and universal. For instance, Hafez suggests that true humanity lies in empathizing with the sorrows of others. This encourages a spirit of friendship and compassion.

Q: How do you feel when creating your art?
A: The feeling is indescribable. Often, I become so engrossed in my work that hours pass without me noticing any fatigue. While this isn’t always the case, I usually find immense joy in my craft, feeling a deep sense of happiness as if I’m savoring every moment of life, much like a lover who can’t bear to be apart from their beloved.

Q: How do you sell your artwork?
A: I promote my works through social media advertising.

Q: Who is your target audience?
A: My audience consists of those who possess a love for beauty, human values, the poetry of Hafez, and exquisite artistic creations.

Q: What was the main idea behind your artwork?
A: My aim is to merge the artistry of past centuries with contemporary techniques. Wood carving encompasses a wide range of materials and styles throughout human history.

Q: How do your creations differ from modern furniture?
A: Unlike many contemporary pieces inspired by foreign designs, I utilize authentic Iranian motifs. This approach extends to my calligraphy and other forms of decorative arts.

Q: What symbols and elements are present in your work?
A: In addition to the themes found in Hafez’s poetry, my pieces feature various flowers and trees, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a blooming garden. One notable symbol is the rose.

Q: What does the rose symbolize?
A: Roses carry numerous meanings, with the most significant being love, beauty, and balance. For instance:

• Red Rose: Symbolizes love and passion.
• White Rose: Represents purity and innocence.
• Yellow Rose: Signifies joy and mature love.

Q: What feedback have you received from your audience?
A: As the saying goes, “What comes from the heart goes to the heart.” My works resonate deeply, leading to heartfelt compliments from viewers. Art serves as a means of spiritual purification, allowing individuals to escape their anxieties and immerse themselves in beauty.

Q: What does each piece convey?
A: Each chair and table conveys a wealth of moral, emotional, and educational teachings, encapsulated in the sweet words of Hafez.

Q: How long did it take to create this artwork?
A: It took me eight years to complete.

Q: What challenges did you face during the creation process?
A: Initially, I sought skilled artisans to help visualize my ideas, but their designs didn’t meet my expectations. Eventually, I took matters into my own hands. As the head of a wood workshop, I faced resistance from administration while trying to balance my responsibilities with my artistic ambitions. Despite the challenges, the final pieces left even my critics in awe.

Q: What specific techniques did you use for this work?
A: I employed techniques such as wood carving, latticework, inlaid wood carving, and engraving.

Q: What tools did you use for your woodwork?
A: My toolkit includes both electrical tools like drills, routers, and sanders, as well as hand tools such as chisels, mallets, and custom clamps.