Ali Banisadr

An exploration of a powerful voice in contemporary art whose works distill art history, philosophy, and world events The practice of one of todays most exciting artists, Ali Banisadr (b. 1976), includes painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture. At first glance, Banisadrs works resemble gestural abstractions, charged with energy and interwoven colors, but on closer inspection they reveal themselves as vast theatrical landscapes, often populated with a cast of characters enacting mysterious narratives. His complex, turbulent visual worlds are marked by syncopated rhythms that corral a multitude of references from across art historyincluding German Expressionism, Abstract Expressionism, Renaissance and Medieval art, alchemical imagery, Mesopotamian antiquities, and Persian miniatureswhile at the same time engaging with pressing issues in contemporary society. Alongside images of works from Banisadrs full career, three essays explore the artists rich iconography and the influence of biographical history, such as his childhood in Tehran during the IranIraq War and his involvement with the graffiti community in San Diego. Also featured is an interview with Banisadr by art historian Robert Storr and annotated plate entries. Filled with new insights into Banisadrs creative process, this volume provides a window into the dazzling mixture of abstraction, representation, chaos, and composure that defines the artists groundbreaking work. Distributed for the Katonah Museum of Art Exhibition Schedule: Katonah Museum of Art (March 16June 25, 2025)