Artist Statement:

My paintings reflect the profound contrasts inherent in contemporary art. On one canvas, I explore the rapid evolution of technology, which is fundamentally reshaping not only artistic expression but also our perception of reality itself. This exploration stands in stark contrast to classical art forms, creating dialogues with past narratives while seeking coherence in the chaos of the modern world.

In the dynamic, ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, my work investigates the intersection of tradition and disruption. It presents a rich visual narrative that addresses the challenges posed by our digitally driven existence. I embrace what I call the "aesthetics of interruption," questioning how we can challenge established norms in a world saturated with distractions, noise, and an overwhelming pace of life.

My visual vocabulary is informed by the interactions between memory and culture, alongside the contrasting themes of nature and tranquility. Through this lens, I navigate these intricate themes by blending figuration and abstraction. The flowing colors in my work not only express nature but also reflect the multifaceted complexities of human experience, illustrating life's interconnectedness.

While vivid color is vital to my expression, my ambition goes beyond aesthetics. I aim to create contrasts that mirror life's intricacies. This vision culminates in my upcoming exhibition, Urban Canopy, which highlights the significance of trees within urban landscapes. The exhibition emphasizes their critical role in the dialogue about urbanization and environmental sustainability, urging viewers to consider the delicate balance between nature and urban development.

Artist Bio:

Mahtab Firouzabadi is a North Shore-based contemporary abstract and activist artist of Iranian descent. After completing high school in Germany, she returned to Iran to pursue her passion for both art and literature. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Painting and a Master's in Art, with a focus on German literature, from Azad University in Iran (2001-2003).

Firouzabadi’s move to Canada marked a turning point in her artistic journey, prompting a recalibration of her vision and identity as she immersed herself in the multicultural fabric of Canadian society. Drawing inspiration from history, geography, mythology, and technology, she embarked on a transformative process of introspection and adaptation, integrating these diverse influences into her work. She furthered her studies with an MFA from Emily Carr University of Art + Design in Vancouver (2017-2019).

Her artistic and conceptual vocabulary is shaped by the interaction between cultural memory, expressions of nature, poetry, peace, and urbanism—all within a contemporary framework. Firouzabadi views trees as symbols of purity, energy, fertility, and sacredness, which play a significant role in her work.

For Firouzabadi, both language and art are essential tools of connection—personal and communal. Through exposure to diverse cultures, she has evolved her art, using these experiences to enrich her creative expression.