Negar Sepehr is a Tehran-based artist whose work is inspired by advocacy for womens’ and LGBTQ rights in Iran. with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, decided to follow her dream in the art world. Originally developing a practice in oil painting and calligraphy, her AI work intertwines female subjects with vibrant, expressionist color to elevate moments of ordinary life.
Interview
Your work often explores physicality and moments of daily life. How did you begin working in this direction?
Watching people living their everyday life has always been a captivating pastime for me. I am drawn to the intricate human interaction, observing the subtle nuances of body language, facial expressions, and unspoken conversations. From the city streets to the quiet corners of a coffee shop, I delight in the diversity of human experiences. It's fascinating to witness the unique ways people navigate their daily lives, their joys, sorrows, hopes, and dreams. The simple act of observing others often sparks a sense of wonder and empathy, reminding me of the shared humanity that connects us all.
How does your work explore the intersection of visual storytelling and abstract themes?
I focus on those profound emotional moments that often go unnoticed in our busy lives. We may become so engrossed in our work, relationships, and other responsibilities that we overlook the simple yet profound experiences that enrich our lives. By highlighting these ordinary moments, I aim to inspire viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty and significance that can be found in these aspects of life.
Can you walk us through your creative process, from concept to completion
Once an initial concept materializes in my mind, I start on a creative process that involves generating hundreds of images utilizing AI tools, each a slight or significant variation of the original idea. By carefully selecting and digitally stitching together these images along with post-processing using graphics software, I construct the final composition that aligns with my vision. This iterative approach allows me to explore a vast range of possibilities and ultimately bring my abstract ideas to life.
How does your cultural background influence your artistic vision?
Persian culture is deeply intertwined with storytelling; you can see this in poetry, music, and philosophy. Use of vibrant and contrasting colors to create narrative power in the artwork is also a common feature in Persian visual artists.
What role does color play in your compositions?
Colors have always been more than just hues to me. They're a language, a medium through which I can articulate the emotions and sensations that life's fleeting moments inspire. this may come from my years of painting. Each brushstroke, and each color choice, has been a deliberate expression, a visual translation of my inner world, each one carrying its own story, its message.
What influences or inspirations are most prominent in your current work?
My artwork for this project is an extension of my ongoing exploration, delving into the profound emotions we experience in waiting. I seek to capture the intricate interplay of hope, worry, and impatience that arises as we await a significant message or outcome.
Are there any rituals or routines you follow when creating art?
While I don't adhere to a rigid routine, I generally work on new ideas, and explore AI tools in the mornings and shift my focus to my unfinished physical paintings in the afternoon. It's not a strict plan and I focus on each side for many days if It's needed, for example right now I'm focusing on a small new digital collection that will be available soon.