Tooraj Khamenehzadeh (تورج خامنه زاده) is an artist and curator born in Iran, Qazvin, based in New York, known for his significant contributions to photography and video art. Initially rooted in theater, Khamenehzadeh transitioned his artistic pursuits to visual arts, resulting in a work that harmoniously fuses theatrical elements with visual storytelling.
Growing up in an environment influenced by Eastern philosophy, Khamenehzadeh's artistic sensibilities gravitated towards mysticism and poetry. Drawing inspiration from the spiritual journeys of mystics, he relies on his intuition to explore subjective experiences, translating these introspective insights into a diverse array of artworks. His creations offer a multi-faceted exploration of varying realities, artfully interweaving historical echoes with contemporary encounters.
Within the fabric of his artistic narrative, Khamenehzadeh adeptly interlaces themes spanning personal introspection and socio-political contemplation. His explorations encompass profound subjects, ranging from mortality and solitude to the complexities of fear, time, existence, transformation, crisis, and oblivion. Employing a dynamic array of image-based techniques, he seamlessly integrates theatrical elements to construct a dynamic synthesis that oscillates between experimental and documentary realms, culminating in a work that resonates with imaginative depth.

In his latest art projects, Khamenehzadeh continues to explore and innovate. His 'Disruption' project captures the haunting essence of an empty New York City during the lockdown, presenting moments that evoke both distant memories and uncertain futures. This work disrupts the process of becoming, metaphorically recreating the experience of interrupted potential. Each image not only signifies interruption but also the fragility of forming memories.
'I'm Not a Song to Be Sung' is a poignant multi-channel video installation that delves into the lives of a generation of Iranians impacted by war, sanctions, and socio-political pressures after the 1979 Iranian Revolution. Through underwater recitations of lines from Persian poetry By Shamlu in English, this installation encapsulates the stories of individuals contemplating migration, invoking powerful emotions and narratives.
Khamenehzadeh's artistic journey explores boundaries, an interplay of themes, and a testament to his unwavering commitment to creativity, dialogue, and shared human experiences.

Biography 

Khamenehzadeh's portfolio has achieved global recognition, with presentations at esteemed platforms, including the Iran Photo Biennial, Monnaie de Paris, Polyforme Video Art Festival, Chongqing Photo and Video Biennale, Nepal International Art Festival, and Now&After Video Art Festival. His creative insights have found outlets in respected publications such as African Textile Today, PIX, Connaissance des Arts, and Canvas. Active participation in international artists' workshops and residencies, including Theertha, Khoj, SaNsA, Vasl, and Organhaus, has further enriched his artistic journey. He holds an MFA in Photography, Video, and Related Media from the School of Visual Arts in New York.

Beyond his individual artistic endeavors, Khamenehzadeh's engagement extends to curatorial and managerial roles within diverse arts and cultural projects.
Notably, he played a significant role as Curator and Program Manager of the Kooshk Artist Residency, contributing to the organization's success and fostering artistic development.
Khamenehzadeh's commitment to the arts is further exemplified through his role as a Founding Member of the Rybon Art Center in Tehran, Iran.
Additionally, he served as a Res Artist board member from 2016 to 2020 and contributed to the success of the 1st Res Artis Meeting in the Middle East in 2016, serving as part of the management team.

References

"Within the Spectrum of a Gaze: Tooraj Khamenehzadeh’s Inspired Tableaux Vivants" by Natasha Chuk 

The Immigrant Artist Biennial Patron Circle 

International Workshop Kasheer 2007 

“Haft Paykar | Seven Beauties” 
Curated by Natasha Chuk & Tooraj Khamenehzadeh 

Social | #ArtistHotline Returns to Twitter on May 16 

1st Res Artis Meeting in the Middle East 

Res Artis | Prepare for Production: On Residencies and Artistic Production 

Rybon's Second International Artists Workshop 

1st Rybon International Artists' Workshop 

Iranian artists
Living people
People from Qazvin
American people of Iranian descent