Lot 97: Galaxy

Gholamhossein Nami (Iranian, b. 1936)
Galaxy
signed and dated 'Gh. Nami 78' in English (lower right)
acrylic on canvas, triptych
right and left 39 3/8 x 39 3/8in. (100 x 100cm.); centre 39 3/8 x 59in. (100 x 150cm.); overall 137¾ x 39 3/8in. (100 x 350cm.)
Painted in 1977 (3)

"While producing white three-dimensional works of art during the 1960s and then 1970s inspired by inscriptions and old gravestones in Iranian villages, I started creating works using Persian calligraphy. I believe that aesthetic values of Persian calligraphy, which can be employed in producing works of art, include the abstract expression of two elements: rhythm and motion. Mere obsession with the appearance of letters and words makes the work dependent upon literal meaning of the words and devoid of any creative, fantastic visualization. Therefore, I have tried to use hints of motion and rhythm of Persian or Arabic calligraphy in nimble, spontaneous moves on canvas to reincarnate familiar signs and calligraphic forms which can be part of the cultural identity and history of my land."
Gholamhossein Nami