About

ZH, a nonprofit organization founded in 2014 by a group of dedicated Iranian artists and art enthusiasts in Los Angeles, CA, strives to enrich and promote Persian art, culture, and community through its various initiatives.

Our name, “the letter [ژ] in Farsi,” and our philosophy are both inspired by the legacy of the book “Arzhang,” meaning “Worthy.”

Often referred to as the “Book of Pictures” Arzhang was illustrated by the famous artist and philosopher Mani in the first century AD and its influence is known to have traveled far and wide through centuries. A testament to the power of art, it is thought to be the origin of miniature paintings, and its journey to have inspired countless other cultural art forms across nations throughout the years.

Inspired by this legacy, our goal is to showcase the vibrancy and evolving nature of Persian art and culture globally while building bridges fostering community among artists and art enthusiasts across borders. Allowing art to become the bridge that connects people globally through its universal language, cultivating a future where the creativity of Persian art knows no borders and every voice, echoing the essence of Persian art, is heard, valued, and contributes to the harmonious tapestry of humanity.

Vision
We envision a vibrant and inclusive community that extends beyond borders, celebrates Persian contemporary art and artists, and promotes mutual understanding and appreciation that transcends cultural differences. We aspire to contribute to a global landscape where Persian art is not only acknowledged but cherished, fostering a harmonious exchange that reflects the enduring legacy of tradition while embracing the unfolding chapters of creativity in the contemporary world.

Mission
Fueled by the deep transcendent nature and impact of art, our mission is to showcase the evolving tapestry of Persian art and culture celebrated through a diverse range of artistic expressions. Showcasing emerging contemporary artists and providing an opportunity for them to share their stories and works of art with the community of fellow professionals, art enthusiasts, and aspiring artists. Playing a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of contemporary Persian art on the global stage.

Through our platform, online magazine, curated exhibitions, webinars, educational opportunities, and other innovative programs we are dedicated to empowering emerging and established Persian artists within Iran and the Persian Diaspora. Inspiring a mutual understanding and appreciation for the dynamic, evolving artistry rooted in the Persian tradition and allowing for a seamless connection between the richness of the past and the celebration of new emerging expressions, revealing the essence of our shared humanity.

Join us in fueling the flames of creativity and igniting positive change. Together, we can illuminate the world with the brilliance of Persian art and culture creating a world united in diversity and ignited by artistic expression.

Interview with Siavash Sufinejad

Siavash Sufinejad, born in 1977 in Tehran, Iran, began his educational journey at the National Talent Development Organization, where he nurtured his early skills.

Interview with Alborz Teymoorzadeh

Born in 1987 in a northern city of Iran, Alborz Teymoorzadeh completed his degree in Architecture and now resides in Luxembourg.

Interview with Afarin Mansouri

Afarin Mansouri, an acclaimed composer and opera artist, seamlessly blends her Iranian heritage with Western influences. She has received numerous accolades, including the Canada 150 Medal and the Kathleen McMorrow Music Award. Her compositions have been featured in prestigious publications like The Globe & Mail, BBC World, and Opera Canada. Afarin's recent focus has been creating groundbreaking operas that bridge cultures using language, poetry, and traditional instruments. She founded the Cultureland Opera Collective, amplifying underrepresented voices in the arts.

Interview with Farren

Farnoosh Doroodgar, known artistically as Farren, is a digital artist from Tehran, Iran, born in 1989. Despite earning her master's degree in economics, Farnoosh's true passion has always been rooted in the arts, a journey she embarked on earnestly.

“Naz Meknat: Styling for the Stars and Fighting for Freedom”

An Inspiring Interview with the Multifaceted Fashion Stylist, Author, and Women's Rights Advocate

Interview with Farhad Re

Farhad Re comes into fashion after his studies in architecture at the University of Rome; for this reason, he adores

Interview with Shiva Negar

Shiva is Iranian-Canadian Actress, Model, Producer, and Influencer who rose to prominence starring Annika Ogden in CBS Films/Lionsgate Blockbuster Movie

Interview with Bita Fayyazi

Rather than a sculptor, installation artist, or ceramicist engaged in a somewhat mystic relationship with her materials, Bita Fayyazi (b. 1962, Iran) is an artist who works within a more performative and markedly social practice. Beginning in the mid-1990s, her artistic interventions challenged the official definitions of art that were often circulated in Tehran at that time. Fayyazi struggled to show her work amidst an atmosphere of traditionalism, academics, and the influx of 1990s conceptual art from abroad.

Interview with Raoof Haghighi

Raoof Haghighi is an Iranian-born British artist, known for his portraiture and realism. He was born in 1976 in Shiraz,

Interview with Boshra

Born in 1985 in Shiraz, Boshra is an Iranian poet, writer, actress, and model who was first introduced to Persian literature by her grandfather before starting primary school. She developed a precocious love of poets such as Iradj Mirza and Parvin E'tesami whose work inspired her to write her own poetry from a young age. Boshra later studied Children's Literature and Theatre at the BIHE University and eventually left Iran for the USA in 2009 where she currently resides.