‘I must continue until I die’: inside the fight to bring Iran’s thriving art scene to the world
Amid economic sanctions and ongoing conflict, a new initiative is returning Iran’s artists to the international spotlight
TL;DR
- Economic sanctions and military actions have devastated Iran's art market, causing financial hardship for artists.
- Continuum: Artist Relief for Iran is a new digital platform connecting Iranian artists with international audiences.
- The initiative was founded by Canadian-Iranian curator Dario Duran to support artists facing cancellations, gallery closures, and material shortages.
- Continuum offers artworks at accessible price tiers, with 100% of sales going directly to the artists.
- Despite logistical challenges due to sanctions and airspace closures, artworks are being shipped internationally via ground borders and alternative routes.
- The project prioritizes presenting Iranian art as art, rather than solely as a representation of conflict or political suffering.
- Continuum provides crucial financial and emotional support, offering artists a sense of hope and validation during a difficult time.