Mehdi Ghadyanloo

Mehdi Ghadyanloo is an Iranian artist and muralist whose paintings, often in Surrealist style, are imbued with an otherworldly atmosphere, depicting architectural landscapes and exploring philosophical and existential themes. 

Biography of Mehdi Ghadyanloo

Born in Tehran, Iran, in 1981, Mehdi Ghadyanloo experienced life on a farm during the war with Iraq, an impactful period that is evident in his art through senses of uncertainty, loss, and respite.

Ghadyanloo gained broader public attention when commissioned by the Ministry of Beautification of Iran to paint walls across Tehran. Between 2004 and 2011, he completed over a hundred wall pieces, which garnered admiration from both the public and art critics. His work soon attracted international press and the interest of galleries like Richard Howard-Griffin. The artist also received major public commissions for murals in locations such as Kings Cross and The Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy in 2016, specifically in Dewey Square, Boston.

In March 2017, Ghadyanloo held his first exhibition in two years, titled "Spaces of Hope," at the Howard Griffin Gallery in London. Despite his widespread international success, Mehdi Ghadyanloo leaves an impression of a modest artist devoted to his craft and deeply connected to the world around him.

The artist resides and works in Tehran, Iran.

Mehdi Ghadyanloo's Art Style

Mehdi Ghadyanloo has a unique style that blends his Persian heritage with Western influences and routines. Instead of using the typical calligraphy and geometric patterns often seen in Muslim art, the artist defies clichés and creates a modern take. 

Reflecting the sentiments of his whole generation, Mehdi Ghadyanloo's art conveys a unique blend of hope, love, and melancholy. His wistful and poetic style carries a Zen-like tone, transcending mere national identity to reach a higher, universal level. In his treatment of light, Ghadyanloo's work draws comparisons to David Hockney.  

The minimalistic architecture and surrealistic environments in Ghadyanloo's work bring to mind the influence of painters such as Giorgio de Chirico, Magritte, and Le Corbusier. Throughout his pieces, the artist employs a recurring set of symbols: stairs, airplanes, balloons, geometric cubes, spiral staircases, and expansive walls.