Love Is the Beginning of Humanity

A Calligraphy Exhibition by Ali Pasandideh

April 5 – April 20, 2025

Plan your visit 

Open daily | Free admission

About the Exhibition

“Love Is the Beginning of Humanity” is more than a poetic title, it is the emotional and philosophical thread connecting every artwork in this new solo exhibition by Iranian calligraphy artist Ali Pasandideh.

Inspired by a verse from contemporary Iranian poet Hooshang Ebtehaj, this exhibition invites visitors to explore love not as sentiment, but as a universal force that gives meaning to human life. The collection features over 25 framed pieces, all created on paper using ink, with select works incorporating acrylic and spray paint.

Each piece blends classical calligraphy with modern minimalist aesthetics, creating a dialogue between tradition and innovation. The themes of the works center around romantic and mystical poetry, drawing from deep cultural roots while offering fresh visual interpretations.

“Love is not just an emotion. It is a fundamental force that gives identity to humanity. Without love, life becomes dry and meaningless.” – Ali Pasandideh

Artist statement

"Love is the beginning of humanity."

This single verse reflects the soul of the exhibition. For Ali, love has always been the driving force behind his artistic journey. His calligraphy becomes a spiritual gesture, an act of remembering, honoring, and sharing the essence of human connection. Through ink, form, and rhythm, he transforms poetic thought into visual beauty.

About the Artist – Ali Pasandideh

Ali Pasandideh was born in 1978 in Iran. His passion for calligraphy began in his teenage years, but due to limited opportunities in his hometown, he moved to Mashhad in 1999 to pursue his dream. There, he joined the Iranian Calligraphers Association and began what would become a prolific and celebrated career spanning more than 26 years.

Career Highlights

• First Prize in Nastaliq Calligraphy, Mashhad (2005)
• Secretary of the Cultural & Artistic Festival in Sarakhs (2008)
• President of the Sarakhs Calligraphers Association
• Calligraphy Instructor in Turkey
• Featured in the Iran National Art Auction (twice)
• Selected as one of 20 honored artists for the 20th anniversary of Etihad Airways (2024)

Ali has held 17 solo exhibitions across Iran and abroad, in countries such as Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Switzerland, Oman, and the UAE, and participated in many more group exhibitions globally.

The style he uses in calligraphy is Nastaliq, translating spiritual and poetic depth into timeless visual expressions.

Special Event – Workshop with the Artist

Experiencing the Art of Minimal Calligraphy

Saturday, April 12, 2025
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Free admission 

Register here

Join us for a unique hands-on workshop led by Ali Pasandideh himself. This intimate session offers participants the chance to:

• Watch a live creation of a calligraphy piece
• Participate in guided practice with materials
• Engage in an open conversation with the artist
• Enter a raffle to win an original artwork created on the spot

This event is open to all levels - from beginners to calligraphy enthusiasts - and is designed to deepen appreciation for this timeless art form.