Anahita Akhavan: Weaving a Garden

Anahita Akhavan's artistic practice is informed by her ongoing research project "Bagh-e Irani" (Iranian Garden). The inspiration for this project came from her experiences of visiting historical buildings and viewing traditional tapestry in Iran, to research and explore the role of traditional Persian geometry in shaping the designs of gardens. In this way, Iranian gardens are not only a physical space but also an inspiration for artistic expression.The motifs, patterns and ornamentation found in the architecture outside as well as in the tapestry and woven carpets found indoors, piqued her interest in taking on further research.

Anahita Akhavan has exhibited extensively in Iran and Canada as well as in the US and has participated in artist residencies in Spain and Greece. In 2021, Akhavan was awarded the RBC Newcomer Arts Award and a Toronto Arts Council grant. She holds an MFA from the University of Saskatchewan and obtained her BFA from the University of Tehran, Iran. Akhavan has works in the permanent collections of Telus, Capital One, Home Equity, Scotiabank, TD Bank, BMO and the RBC Art Collection. Akhavan is represented by United Contemporary, and Duran Mashaal, Montreal.