Biography:
Hamid Mahdavi (born in Tehran in 1999) is a contemporary artist who explores the themes of love, identity, and sexuality, based on various experiences he has had throughout his life. His paintings and narratives are his attempts to expound on how political repression and social negligence can cause or magnify mental health disorders, especially amongst queer individuals. He conveys his concepts via a creative combination of symbols, metaphors, and references. Though his style has a distinctive simplicity and tidiness to it, he constantly seeks to approach complexities from a different outlook.

Artist Statement:
It was not easy to let go of the expected and delve into the uncertain; yet I knew that if I were to carry on with my life, I had no choice but to adapt. Do not get me wrong; though I was compelled to do so, it does not mean I detest it. In fact, this vocation is the only thing that can liberate me from my intrusive thoughts. Not because I find it my safe space, but quite the opposite. Painting and writing empowers me to become a thorn in the side of those who have shamelessly deprived us of our well-deserved freedom, instead of keeping it quiet and staying contented with its fantasy. I consider it my duty to examine the impending challenges from various aspects, and ultimately discover a clever solution to them. Creating art is my way of civil resistance against reactionary ideologies.

Education:
• 2020, Painting Course, Jahad Daneshgahi University, Tehran, Iran
• 2020, Drawing Course, Jahad Daneshgahi University, Tehran, Iran
• BA in Architecture, Tehran University of Art, Tehran, Iran
• 2017, Allame Helli 4 High School, Tehran, Iran

Solo Exhibition:
• 2022, “Series 01”, Ehsan Art Gallery, Tehran, Iran

Group Exhibition:
• 2024, “New Generation”, Shirin Art Gallery, Tehran, Iran

Awards: