“Tales of New York”: A Deep Dive into Hossein Edalatkhah’s Artistic Odyssey 

Edalatkhah’s oeuvre delves deep into identity, sexuality, and gender, interweaving traditional Persian symbols with modern sensibilities. His signature blend of organic abstraction often presents traditional figures that meld seamlessly, taking on phallic forms—a symbolic nod to the societal “erection” he critiques. As he continues to challenge Iran’s entrenched cultural norms, Edalatkhah fosters global dialogues about acceptance and equality. Celebrated worldwide, his art graces numerous galleries and renowned art events.

October is an eventful month for the art community, especially for those watching the contemporary scene. Hamzianpour & Kia Gallery has announced its latest exhibition, “Tales of New York,” spotlighting the captivating works of Hossein Edalatkhah. Running from October 28 to November 21, this solo show promises to be a sensory voyage for its attendees.

Drawing its essence from seven large-scale pieces painted between 2016 and 2018, the collection unfolds Edalatkhah’s artistic transition from Iran to New York. The canvases are not mere visuals but diary pages from a transformative phase in the artist’s life.
While this marks Edalatkhah’s second solo endeavor in Los Angeles under the aegis of Hamzianpour & Kia, it’s fascinating to note its synchronicity with “Quarantine Orchids” at Toronto’s Sahar K. Boluki Art Gallery.

Delving into “Tales of New York,” one can’t help but marvel at Edalatkhah’s adept intertwining of personal experiences with universal emotions. His artistic rendition of acclimating to New York’s vibrant chaos is an anthem for anyone who’s ventured into unfamiliar territories. But Edalatkhah’s narrative doesn’t stop at mere documentation. He invokes mythology, using it as a palette to infuse his work with an aura of timelessness. His creatures, often a blend of the human and the fantastical, seem familiar, yet they evade any known mythological categorization. Edalatkhah is conjuring his myths, encouraging viewers to embark on interpretive journeys.
The thematic depth of “A House Built on Water” deserves a special mention. Its dual-headed figure, crowned with a paper boat and multiple observing eyes, encapsulates the multifaceted emotions of an immigrant. In its vivid hues and profound symbolism, this painting explores the myriad feelings – from wonderment to vulnerability – inherent to the immigrant experience.

While each artwork is a distinct homage to New York’s eclectic spirit, recurring motifs tie them into a harmonious narrative. Edalatkhah’s predilection for eyes, especially, stands out. These omnipresent orbs, often exaggerated, reflect not just the artist’s voracious appetite for his new surroundings but also subtly interrogate the act of viewing. They challenge us, as observers, to introspect upon our perspectives, biases, and the prisms through which we engage with art and the world beyond.
These very eyes also narrate tales of Edalatkhah’s challenges, offering glimpses into the artist’s struggles both in his native Iran and his adopted city. Works like “Dancing Shadows” and “The Chinatown” poignantly portray figures intertwined, hinting at identity struggles and the challenge of self-preservation in foreign lands.
As “Tales of New York” gears up to open its doors, it promises to be more than just an exhibition; it offers an introspective journey. Hossein Edalatkhah, through his masterful strokes, invites us to traverse his memories, experiences, and emotions. This October, join us in immersing into this rich tapestry of stories and be prepared to discover not just Edalatkhah’s tales but, perhaps, some of your own.