Meet Ainaz Alipour | Iranian Visual Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ainaz Alipour and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ainaz, how do you think about risk?
Risk has been an inherent part of both my personal life and my artistic career. As an Iranian artist working in a transnational context, taking risks is often about challenging boundaries—whether it’s cultural, political, or artistic. Early in my career, I moved from Iran to pursue an MFA in the U.S., which was a huge risk but ultimately expanded my perspective on visual arts and allowed me to bridge the gap between my heritage and contemporary practices.

In my work, risks manifest through experimentation with new mediums and forms, like blending traditional Iranian textile techniques with digital media, VR, and interactive installations. This synthesis of old and new could be seen as unconventional, but I believe that pushing these boundaries invites deeper conversations about identity, power, and representation.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a blend of traditional Iranian textile techniques with modern digital media, creating immersive installations that explore themes of identity, culture, and the politics of the body. What sets my work apart is this intersection of the old and the new—bringing centuries-old sewing crafts from northern Khorasan into conversation with video, virtual reality, and interactive technology. I see my art as a bridge between cultures and eras, a way to tell stories that are often overlooked, especially those of Iranian women.

One of the projects I’m most proud of is MoAserat, which delves into the immigrant experience and the constant negotiation of living between cultures. The project combines soft sculpture, 360-degree video, and layered audio to create a dynamic, immersive environment. I’m also excited about my ongoing project Karvansaray/Khandaq, which focuses on historical Iranian caravanserais built by women rulers, blending digital reconstructions with semi-transparent textile panels. These pieces reflect my fascination with how the stories of women—especially those from my heritage—can be reclaimed and reimagined.

The path to where I am today hasn’t been easy. Moving from Iran to the U.S. and navigating the challenges of building a new life in a foreign country while continuing to pursue my artistic vision was difficult. Like many artists, I’ve faced periods of uncertainty—whether due to financial constraints, personal doubt, or external limitations. There have been moments where I had to take on jobs unrelated to my passion just to make ends meet. But each challenge taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to make the most of the time and resources available to me, and to always keep creating, even when circumstances weren’t ideal.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of persistence and self-advocacy. There were many times I didn’t feel like I belonged in certain spaces, but I pushed forward because I knew my voice and perspective mattered. Over time, I’ve learned to trust myself more, both as an artist and as someone navigating life between two cultures.

What I want the world to know about me and my work is that my art is deeply personal but also universal. It’s about the ways we connect to our cultural heritage while constantly evolving in new contexts. I’m committed to challenging stereotypes and offering a nuanced portrayal of Iranian women and immigrant identities. My work is not just about creating something visually engaging—it’s about telling stories that provoke thought and empathy, and inviting viewers to engage with them in a meaningful way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a week-long trip, I’d plan a mix of art, nature, good food, and a few hidden gems!
Here’s what I’d suggest:

Day 1 – Art and Culture: We’d start with a visit to the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), exploring its fantastic contemporary art collections and enjoying the waterfront views. After lunch at Verde, we’d head over to the Contemporary Art Modern Project (The CAMP Gallery) to see the “We Got the Power” exhibition, where I’m honored to have a piece included. The show, curated by Melanie Prapopoulos and Maria Gabriela Di Giammarco, features 77 women artists, all addressing social discourse through textile art. Inspired by Lysistrata and Spike Lee’s Chi-Raq, the exhibition explores powerful themes like violence, war, sexual power, patriarchy, and the strength of women. Over 100 pieces are installed in a continuous frieze throughout the gallery, creating a bold and immersive experience. I’m thrilled to be part of such a meaningful show alongside so many talented women artists. We’d wrap up the day by visiting the vibrant street art in Wynwood Walls.

Day 2 – Beach Day: No trip to Miami is complete without some beach time! We’d spend the day relaxing at South Beach, enjoying the iconic white sand and turquoise water. For lunch, we’d hit La Sandwicherie, a local favorite known for its fresh sandwiches. In the evening, we’d grab cocktails at The Broken Shaker, a super cool, laid-back bar with creative drinks.

Day 3 – Exploring Little Havana: We’d dive into Miami’s Cuban culture by spending the day in Little Havana. We’d start with a Cuban coffee at Café La Trova and then explore Calle Ocho, visiting the Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park and watching cigar rolling at one of the shops. For lunch, we’d have a traditional Cuban meal at Versailles, the most iconic Cuban restaurant in Miami. We’d end the day with some live music and salsa dancing at Ball & Chain.

Day 4 – Nature and Relaxation: A visit to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden would be perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy Miami’s tropical nature. Afterward, we’d head to Coconut Grove for lunch at Glass & Vine, which has an incredible outdoor space. We’d end the day with a sunset boat ride around Biscayne Bay.

Day 5 – The Design District: We’d spend a day exploring the Miami Design District, a hub for art, architecture, and fashion. We’d check out Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) and wander through designer shops and galleries. For lunch, we’d stop at Mandolin Aegean Bistro, a cozy spot with Mediterranean vibes. In the evening, we’d catch dinner at Swan, a trendy spot with great food and a lively atmosphere.

Day 6 – Key Biscayne Adventure: We’d take a day trip to Key Biscayne, a quieter, more laid-back beach destination. We’d visit the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse and then have lunch at Rusty Pelican, known for its stunning waterfront views. It’s the perfect spot for a more relaxed, nature-filled day.

Day 7 – Final Day in Miami: On the last day, we’d go for brunch at The Local House in South Beach for a delicious meal by the beach. Then, we’d explore Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning European-inspired estate that feels like stepping back in time. To end the trip, we’d have a farewell dinner at Juvia, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Miami, with amazing food to match.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There have been many people and influences that have helped me along my journey. I would first give credit to my family and close friends for their unwavering support and encouragement. Their belief in me has been a constant source of motivation.

Additionally, I owe a lot to the mentors, teachers, and fellow artists I’ve met throughout my career. Their guidance and shared knowledge have been invaluable in helping me grow as an artist. I’ve also been fortunate to be part of various organizations and residencies that have provided me with opportunities and resources to develop my work further.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge the broader artistic community, both locally and globally, for creating spaces that foster creativity and collaboration. All of these people and experiences have contributed to where I am today.

Website: https://AinazAlipour.com

Instagram: ainaz_alipour

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Image Credits
Ainaz Alipour