Capturing the Essence of Modern Life and Nature: The Artistry of Iranian Photographer Nazanin Davari

an article written by Mona Lisa Abramovich
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In the realm of contemporary minimalist photography, the work of Nazanin Davari shines brightly as a beacon of artistic innovation and thoughtful observation. Born in 1992 and residing in Tehran Province, Iran, Davari's lens captures the complex interplay between modernity and nature in a way that challenges our perceptions and invites us to ponder the world around us in new ways.

The Drive Behind the Lens
Nazanin Davari's artistic journey is fueled by a unique perspective on the world, one that sees beauty in the juxtaposition and contrast of man-made structures with the natural world. Her motivation to pick up the camera and start taking pictures arises from her deep-seated belief that our surroundings, streets, and urban landscapes, when combined with the beauty of nature, become an intriguing canvas for thought-provoking photography.

A Diverse Palette of Inspiration
Davari's artistic vocabulary is rich and diverse, a reflection of her commitment to continuous learning and exploration. Her extensive studies across various fields, including university courses, paper publications, magazines, and books, have broadened her horizons. Additionally, she has taken numerous off-campus classes, allowing her to draw inspiration from a wide range of sources and perspectives. This amalgamation of knowledge and creativity is clearly evident in her work.

The Artistic Process: Evolution or Pre-Thought?
Davari's approach to her art is a harmonious blend of structured project work and the spontaneous capture of her daily musings. She acknowledges that some of her work is created as part of specific projects, often tailored for exhibitions, where a theme guides her creative process. However, a significant portion of her photographic portfolio is a product of her free-flowing mental imagery and the inspiration she discovers in the world around her.
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Preferred Media: Expressing Through Diversity
When it comes to expressing her artistic vision, Nazanin Davari finds herself drawn to diverse mediums. Books, magazines, and newspapers have a particular allure for her, serving as conduits for her photographic storytelling. Additionally, she gravitates towards more immersive forms of media, such as theater, performing arts, and various exhibitions and events, where her work can engage audiences in a dynamic and interactive manner.

The Birth of an Idea
Davari's creative process often begins with a mental image firmly rooted in her mind. These preconceived ideas act as guiding stars, illuminating her photographic journey. Following the mental image's lead, she embarks on a quest to discover its real-life counterpart in the world around her. This process of searching for and capturing the essence of her vision is where the magic of her photography truly shines.
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The Key to Composition: Point and Line
For Davari, the key element in creating a compelling composition lies in the fundamental elements of art: point and line. By expertly manipulating these basic building blocks of visual expression, she constructs images that resonate deeply with viewers, inviting them to explore the intricate details and relationships within her photographs.

Influences and Inspirations
Every artist has their sources of inspiration, and for Nazanin Davari, one name stands out: Peechaya Burrough. This contemporary artist's work resonates with Davari due to its ability to encapsulate the delicate balance between simplicity and complexity. Burrough's minimalistic compositions, much like Davari's own, invite viewers to contemplate the subtle beauty that surrounds us in our daily lives.
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Nazanin Davari's work is a testament to the power of photography as a medium for capturing the world's myriad facets. Her unique perspective, creative process, and commitment to continuous learning make her a rising star in the world of minimalist photography. As she continues to explore the intersection of modern life and nature through her lens, we can only anticipate the thought-provoking and captivating images that will emerge from her artistic journey in the years to come.

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This article about Nazanin Davari is part of the 37th magazine, ARTICULATE #37 | (non-) space (s). You will be able to read, download or order your print version of the full publication below, when the magazine is published in October.