Arizona artist spotlight: Farnaz Mansouri

Published: 07/14/2023

Meet Phoenix-based artist Farnaz Mansouri featured in our exhibit Greater Phoenix Pastimes

What do you love most about being an artist in Greater Phoenix?

As an artist who immigrated to Phoenix, I appreciate the diverse cultural community and how it has influenced my artwork and perspective. The various cultures and traditions in Phoenix inspired my paintings and allowed me to create art that reflects my unique experiences. Additionally, as a painter, I enjoy Phoenix’s beautiful landscapes and nature, which can inspire my work. The vibrant arts scene in Greater Phoenix also offers opportunities to connect with other artists and showcase my work to a broad audience. Overall, being an artist in Greater Phoenix can provide a rich and diverse environment that inspires my creativity and allows me to connect with others who share my passion for the arts. 

What role do you think arts and culture plays in our community as a whole?

Arts and culture play an essential role in our community as a whole. They contribute to individuals and society’s well-being and quality of life. Arts and culture can provide personal growth, self-expression, and creativity opportunities. They can also help foster social cohesion and unite people from diverse backgrounds. The skills can inspire empathy and understanding, allowing individuals to see things from different perspectives and appreciate the richness of our varied cultural heritage. In addition, arts and culture can have significant economic benefits, contributing to job creation, tourism, and the local economy. They can also help revitalize neighborhoods and communities, making them more vibrant and appealing to residents and visitors. Arts and culture enrich our lives, foster community, and contribute to our society’s economic and social well-being.

What advice do you have for artists wanting to get involved in the local art scene?

To get involved in the local art scene, attending art events like exhibitions, art fairs, and gallery openings is a great start. It’s a chance to meet other artists, curators, and gallery owners and show off your work. Another idea is to join local art groups or organizations that match your artistic interests. They offer plenty of networking opportunities, exhibits, and chances to participate in community projects. Don’t forget to keep creating new pieces and promoting them through your website, social media, and other channels. It’s important to develop a portfolio that represents your artistic style and vision. Just remember that getting involved in the local art scene takes time and effort, so don’t give up! Keep building connections and promoting your work, and success will come. 

What famous artist, deceased or living, would you most want to have dinner with, and what local restaurant would you take them to?

It’s always a tough decision to choose just one artist to have dinner with, but as someone greatly inspired by Cubism’s philosophy and visual style, I would love to sit down with Picasso. And if I had the opportunity to invite another artist to join us, I would choose Chagall, whose unique blend of surrealism and folk art has always captivated me. To make the evening even more special, I would take them to CIBO, a fantastic restaurant in Downtown Phoenix’s heart. Its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and creative cocktails would be the perfect setting for an evening of stimulating conversation and artistic inspiration.

When you’re in a creative slump, where do you turn to for artistic inspiration?

When I find myself in a creative slump, I turn to various sources for artistic inspiration. One of my go-to methods is reading poetry. My favorite one is Sohrab Sepehri, a poet from Iran. It helps me to engage my imagination and think in new ways. I also enjoy listening to podcasts or traditional music that can help me get into a relaxed, meditative state of mind where new ideas can emerge. Another helpful strategy for me is to revisit the masterpieces of other artists – seeing their creative works can spark my ideas and give me a fresh perspective.

For more information about purchasing her artwork, contact Farnaz directly:

farnaaz.mansouri@gmail.com | Instagram

SHIFTED REALITIES II
Acrylic Painting
36” x 36”
$1,250

 

 

 

 

 

Visit Greater Phoenix Pastimes to see 130+ original art pieces by 80+ Arizona artists

Editor’s Note: This blog has been lightly edited for length and clarity.