AN artistic asylum seeker and talented Iranian rug maker will unveil a thought-provoking art series this weekend at an award-winning gallery.
Mehdi Jalalaghdamian’s Art In Exile exhibit will officially be unveiled to the public tomorrow at Firstsite, Colchester, and will remain in situ for an entire year.
The exhibition illustrates his journey to the UK through three beautifully produced creations entitled Tragedy of Refugees, The Queen of Sweden, and Christ.
The artist is currently living in temporary accommodation in Bournemouth but had previously been based in Colchester after fleering Iran.
Before arriving in the UK, he found refuge in Stockholm, Sweden, where he made the three rugs which now act as the centre pieces of the exhibit.
In addition to the rugs, which represent the challenges and influences underpinning the migration crisis, films, detailed hand-drawn designs and tools will be displayed.
Mehdi said: “In today's world, art is replaced by technology and mechanization and honesty and integrity are replaced by lies and sarcasm.
“Former comforts have been replaced by modern luxury.
“Let's support the dying arts and crafts [and hope] for a world with natural, happy and relaxing colours for people's souls.”
The exhibition, which is part of Firstsite’s Art Fund Museum of the Year Award scheme, is free to view and no booking is required.
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