SIAVOSH EJLALI | WOMEN IN IRAN

WOMEN.
RELIGION. IDENTITY. AUTONOMY. FREEDOM

This collection of several projects presents a thought-provoking and somewhat exaggerated exploration of the concept of the “perfect woman” as seen through the lens of a traditional and deeply religious society in Iran.

This captivating collection is thoughtfully structured into two distinct parts. The first part features four frames highlighting the importance of proper attire for women, underscoring two key roles: adherence to religious principles and dedication to fulfilling household responsibilities. Each frame illustrates the societal expectations placed upon women, portraying them as pillars of family and faith while subtly hinting at the limitations imposed by these traditions.

In contrast, the second part of the collection comprises four other frames that build upon the theme of adequate coverage for women. However, this segment delves deeper into complex issues surrounding beauty standards, the notion of controllability, and the concept of sexual empowerment. It invites viewers to reflect on how these topics intersect with traditional values and examines the evolving narrative of women’s societal roles. Through this dual perspective, the collection sparks a dialogue about identity, autonomy, and the multifaceted realities women face in their quest for self-expression.

“The project, Emerging Like a Tree, addresses the issue that, although social, political, and cultural restrictions may seem to confine women and hinder their progress, women are like trees in society. While they may appear unable to move, they begin to rise and blossom from their roots of confinement, striving toward personal growth and fulfillment.
Lack of movement will not cause them to not be seen..”
– Siavosh Ejlali

Siavosh Ejlali, born in 1986, is an accomplished Iranian fine art photographer who currently resides in the vibrant city of Karaj. In 2011, he earned a Master’s Degree in Innovation Management from Tehran Polytechnic University, blending his academic background with a deep passion for visual storytelling.

His professional photography journey began in 2009 as a freelance artist, where he carved a niche for himself in portrait, conceptual, and staged photography. Through his lens, Ejlali captures visually captivating and thought-provoking imagery that engages the viewer on multiple levels. For nearly a decade, he has concentrated his work on representing women within Iranian society, shedding light on their vital roles in social transformations and the profound influence of societal norms and expectations on their lives.

Ejlali was imprisoned for one month in 2022 in a poignant twist of fate, coinciding with the powerful ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ movement. His arrest stemmed from his courageous support for this cause through evocative photographs and impactful social media posts advocating for women’s rights and freedoms.

In addition to his photographic pursuits, Ejlali is a dedicated photography instructor. He imparts his extensive knowledge through advanced teaching courses focused on essential skills such as lighting techniques and portrait retouching. His curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cater to a diverse array of skill levels, ensuring that his students refine their technical capabilities and nurture their artistic visions.

Ejlali’s talent and dedication have garnered him international acclaim, as evidenced by his receipt of over 30 prestigious awards in various photography competitions. Notably, he was shortlisted in the Portrait category at the esteemed Sony World Photography Awards in 2022 and honored with the AFIAP title by the International Federation of Photographic Art. His journey underscores not just his artistry but also his commitment to challenging narratives through powerful imagery.

See the full article in Art Market Magazine Issue #101