Visual arts drive force behind promotion of related art forms: Minister
Iran’s Culture Minister Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili called visual arts as the drive force behind the development all other similar categories of art as he visited the 16th Fajr Visual Arts Festival in Tehran on Friday.
“Whenever the visual arts thrive and prosper, all related arts originating from and connected to the visual realm will also be elevated.
Esmaeili extended gratitude to all the artists of visual arts who curated a “one-of-a-kind festival.”
“The number of artworks has more than doubled compared to previous periods, with renowned artists participating in the competitive sections. New and exquisite works have been publicly exhibited at the Fajr visual festival. I invite everyone to admire these creations,” he told reporters.
The minister hailed the festival for putting on display works that deals with “day-to-day concerns” including the Israeli ongoing war on the Gaza Strip.
“Visual artists, as exemplified in this exhibition, have focused on day-to-day concerns and issues, including their attention to the situation in Gaza, which has been portrayed through innovative art forms. Furthermore, I saw valuable artworks addressing youths, population growth, and the overall progress of the nation,” Esmaeili said.
The culture minister also pointed to the increase in awards and funds for the Fajr Visual Arts Festival saying: “Last year, we expanded the number of awards. God willing, despite the challenges we face this year, we will try to honor the selected artists in the best way possible.”
Speaking about plans to provide more support to young artists, the minister said, “This year, with a commendable initiative taken, we will offer special support to visual arts associations. Further details will be announced soon.”
In response to a question about the timing of the Fajr Visual Arts Festival and its overlap with other festivals like Fajr theater and film, Esmaeili said, some of our Fajr festivals, such as music, fashion, and clothing, are scheduled with a gap of 10 days from the Fajr period. Our colleagues should address this issue,” he said.