Iranian-American artist Eric Parnes explains his work ‘I Dream of Jeannie’, to Abdul Rahman Al Khulaifi, President of Katara Cultural Village, and other guests during the opening of the exhibition at the Katara yesterday. Salim Matramkot
DOHA: Katara, the Cultural Village, yesterday opened three exhibitions at Katara Art Galleries, namely “Intangible Brides” by Japanese photographer Kimiko Yoshida, “Elizabeth Taylor in Iran, 1976” by photographer Firooz Zahedi and “I Dream of Jeannie” by Iranian-American artist Eric Parnes.
Intangible Brides by Kimiko Yoshida is a collection of works which features her interpretation of the Middle Eastern, Arab and North African traditional dress and accessories.
Through her unique work, Yoshida reveals a blend of countless cultures, rituals and mythologies to summon timeless female beauty whilst emphasising not only the differences between human diversity but also the similarities. The exhibition which marks the last event which celebrates 40 years of friendship between Qatar and Japan will run until December 1 at Gallery 2, Building 18.
Sa’id Costa, Curator of Visual Arts Exhibitions and Educational Programmes said, “Last night was a great success, we were joined by VIP guests, the creative community and well known art professionals in Qatar. We look forward to welcoming visitors to come and enjoy these spectacular exhibitions. We are delighted to partner with these three talented artists, who together present a rich variety of artworks. This event is a testimonial of our commitment to provide a platform for world class artists to showcase their artistic skills and enhance creative engagement and promote knowledge exchange,” Sa’id added.
“Elizabeth Taylor in Iran” presents exclusive photographs of the late actress which have never been seen before in the Middle East, during her visit to Iran in 1976.
The American- Iranian photographer, Firooz Zahedi moved to the US to study at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service when he became friends with Elizabeth Taylor and Andy Warhol.
He then went on to photograph Barbra Streisand, Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Paul Newman, John Travolta, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
The works will be on display until December 1 at Gallery 1, Building 19.
Eric Parnes who presented I Dream of Jeannie is also participating in the International Artist in Residency Programme which is developed and supported by Katara in three artist studios. The artist uses a variety of mediums including mixed media objects and sculpture, painting, video installation, photography, and unique materials. The exhibition which is curated by Sa’id Costa will run until November 24 at Katara Gallery 2, Building 19.
The Peninsula
