At Dorothy Circus Gallery in Rome, everything is “set” to welcome the exhibition Bon Appétit by the Iranian artist Afarin Sajedi, open from October 13th to November 10th. Her canvases are a feast of flowers, meat, fish, wine, and champagne, serving as powerful metaphors for the transience of life. The artist employs the ritual act of dining and the symbolism of the laden table to address the complexity of human nature, bringing with it an intricate interplay of invitation and provocation. However, at the core of her production is the female figure, interacting with the dishes “laid on the table” by Sajedi. The saturated colors and the artist’s pursuit of horror vacui contribute to giving her canvases a Renaissance flavor that engages with the elegance of the Rococo.

The theme of femininity, which has always held a special place in the artist’s heart, is evident in the distinctive representation of characters dressed in elaborate and unconventional attire. In this way, Sajedi celebrates not only the strength and resilience of these figures but also reflects her passionate temperament and her connection to her cultural heritage. Sajedi’s art conveys a revitalized vitality and freedom, recalling the innovative spirit of Marie Antoinette. This subtle parallel offers a reinterpretation of women from the 18th century while also serving as a profound reflection on the contemporary role of women worldwide.

This revitalized energy is palpable and bridges the Persian roots of Sajedi with the cosmopolitan influences of Paris, the city where she now resides. With a masterful narrative, Sajedi presents a story imbued with irony, baring her heart and inviting the audience to partake in an artistic banquet with a bold declaration from her crimson lips: Bon Appétit.

Courtesy Dorothy Circus and Afarin Sajedi