Single Shots

Self Portrait

"Self-Portrait" is a poignant exploration of the layers we conceal, a heartfelt response to the complexities of living in a traditional and religious society. When asked to reveal myself, I find myself contemplating not what to showcase, but what to keep hidden. This piece speaks to the masks we wear, a necessity to navigate the societal norms, where divergence can invite consequences. In this artwork, I aim to share the profound concern that many of us in similar contexts carry—straddling the line between our true selves and societal expectations, our identity shrouded in a delicate balance of authenticity and concealment. Through this self-portrait, I hope to spark a dialogue on the profound impact of cultural norms on personal expression, capturing the silent struggles of many, hidden beneath the veneer of conformity.

The Kiss

“Stockholm syndrome is a condition that causes hostages to develop a psychological alliance with their captors as a survival strategy during captivity.” Wikipedia

We surrender ourselves ad nauseam. We yield to forbiddance, prohibitions, tortures, and punishments—and to exile. Regardless of their being just or not. Although, no forbiddance, prohibition, torture, punishment, or exile is just. We have given ourselves to pain and suffering more than our fathers, and they have done that more than their own fathers. The problem of the present generation, however, is not even surrendering, but rather a desire for, an addiction to, and an infatuation with our scares. We look at them with delight as we put on the cloak of a victim. And this is only the beginning.

The End

This photo portrays the negation of the paradoxical beauty of life and death, with images of a man dressed like a mummy holding a newborn baby. Here, profound symbolism emphasizes the eternal cycle of existence - where the end of one chapter becomes the beginning of another. It translates the essence of transition fully, revealing that every ending holds the potential for a fresh start, and every beginning carries the seeds of ultimate transformation. The coexistence of birth and death in this piece prompts viewers to contemplate the cyclical nature of existence, offering a contemplative perspective on the interconnectedness of these universal aspects, where each culmination is a genesis, and each genesis is a culmination.

The Kiss No.2

"The Kiss No.2" confronts the harsh reality faced by individuals trapped in the clutches of their own suffering, grappling with a disturbing paradox where they endure despite the absence of allure. It mirrors the poignant existence of individuals, particularly women, caught in the web of domestic violence, unyielding in their refusal to break free. Through this artwork, I aim to shine a spotlight on this pressing issue, offering a raw portrayal that forces the audience to face the stark and troubling truth, without embellishment or romanticization.

Rumination

"Rumination" captures the essence of individuals ensnared within systems, despite their incessant chatter and verbose proclamations. In this artwork, the subjects, caught in the webs they help weave, incessantly project their self-serving doctrines and judgments onto others. The piece encapsulates the irony of those entangled in their own constructs, unable to escape the very mechanisms they contribute to, reflecting a complex interplay between confinement and expression.

Embracing Butterflies

"Embracing Butterflies" is a poignant portrayal of unity and love, as two figures, shadows entwined, hold branches like wings, symbolizing the potential for shared flight. This evocative artwork underscores the transformative power of human connection and relationships, inspiring the belief that together, we can soar beyond barriers, embracing the universal theme of love in a shared journey of compassion and acceptance.

Maryam

"Maryam" is a captivating portrait that beautifully blends the allure of traditional customs with subtle hints of modernity. This composition reveals a woman ensnared within the confines of a traditional society, while her heart yearns to break free and embrace a modern identity. The juxtaposition of traditional attire and elements with the subtle infusion of modern influences in this photograph invites viewers to contemplate the poignant struggle faced by individuals who navigate the complex terrain between tradition and modern aspirations. Through "Maryam," I aim to shed light on the tension between tradition and modernity, highlighting the aspirations of those who seek to harmonize their roots with the allure of contemporary life.

Mirage Reflections

"Mirage Reflections" captures the essence of connection and contrasts, uniting two portraits that share a mesmerizing gaze, each man's eyes reaching out to the other. This art piece presents a visual dialogue, where their faces echo the mirage of understanding and shared moments. Set against the backdrop of intricate Persian architectural textures, these portraits are emblematic of a bridge between past and present, celebrating the rich traditions that shape our identity. The interplay between the men's expressions and the timeless architecture evokes a sense of unity and duality, reflecting the allure of shared human experiences woven within the intricate fabric of our cultural heritage.

Masked Metamorphosis

"Masked Metamorphosis" is a powerful exploration of identity and transformation, a portrait that hints at a hidden journey. The woman, concealed behind a shroud, dons a manly hat, suggesting a playful defiance of societal norms. Holding a frame before her chest, she reveals a hairy athletic man's torso, inviting us to question the boundaries of gender and perception. This artwork encapsulates the enigma of self-discovery, where the concealment of one's true self can be a transformative act, a dance between the known and the yet-to-be-revealed, unveiling the complexities of human existence and challenging the limitations of a singular perspective.

Negar

"Negar" depicts the beauty and innocence of a woman wrapped in a chador. The striking contrast between her beauty and the textured backdrop of the chador creates a captivating fusion of subject and environment. This artwork, as a visual narrative, highlights the delicate balance between personal identity, inviting viewers to contemplate the richness of this harmonious connection between personal beauty and contemplation.

Email : karamooz.milad@gmail.com

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