At Tehranʼs top art venue a remarkable show brings Western masterpieces out of storage - some pieces havent been displayed for more than ten years. The “Eye-to-Eye“ exhibition (hosted in the museums underground galleries at Laleh Park) attracts many local art-lovers
The exhibitions crowd includes many un-veiled women which points to shifting social norms - even as Irans leadership maintains its strict policies. This mix of old-world rules and new-world reality creates an interesting contrast: while some parts of society show change others stay fixed in place
The museum opens its doors at a time when Iran keeps working on its nuclear program - pushing uranium enrichment to high levels; and takes part in middle-east conflicts. Still‚ inside the gallery walls art speaks its own language bringing together different cultures and ideas. The underground display spaces show how art can create connections even during complex times
- Western paintings from private collections
- Modern sculptures from European artists
- Contemporary installations from American creators
- Previously hidden masterpieces from museum storage
The cultural event happens while Tehran deals with international issues but the focus stays on art - showing how museums can work as bridges between different worlds and ideas