Can you talk a little bit about your creative background and artistic journey?
Growing up in Iran I was exposed to poetry from a young age. My uncle was a poet and the Persian culture as a whole had an immense impact on my creative background and artistic journey. I grew up in a family that was not religious in a country that imposed Islamic laws on its citizens. This oppressive regime has tried to erase Persian culture but the resilience of the creatives within Iran have kept the essence of our culture alive through art. Long road trips, mountains, rivers, I will never forget the beauty of Iran experienced through the back window of our family car. When we emigrated to Canada I was surprised by the differences between the two countries. I felt like I was living in a movie and everyday felt like an adventure. Music, movies, and art is how I was able to connect with people and at that point I realised their power. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do but I knew it had to be in the creative world.
What led you to filmmaking? (or other artistic practice?)
After graduating from York University with a bachelor in history and philosophy I took a year to think about my professional future. I was serving/bartending at Jack Astors and decided to purchase a film camera (Nikon F3) and travel down to California to shoot some stills. I took 5 rolls of Kodak Ektar and started my journey in San Francisco and travelled south on the Pacific Coast Highway ending my trip in Arizona. This was an absolute transformative journey, and I remember thinking to myself, If I am unable to capture this beautiful part of the world perhaps I should look into a different career. The day after I landed I dropped off the films to get developed and I was very happy with the results! That experience gave me the confidence to follow my creative side and eventually led me to become a visual storyteller.
What kind of stories do you want to tell?
I want to tell the kind of stories that bring humanity forward. I am captivated by social constructs and how people can break through the molds our society has put them in. It is really important for me to keep stories simple but find a way to elevate them and give them a new perspective.
What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger artist self?
Dream big and be consistent! You are in control and you have a say in your destiny so why not try and do something extraordinary.
