My art work is called Hodhod which is based on Attar Neishabouri book called “Mantiq al-Tayr” (conference of the birds). This is the tale of the mystical journey of the birds through seven valleys in search of their mythical king, Simurgh, a cosmic bird of ancient Iranian lore, who turns out to be their real Self.
The journey of the birds takes them through the seven valleys of the quest, love, understanding, independence and detachment, unity, astonishment, and finally poverty and nothingness.
The focus of my work is about the dialogue between the birds and the way Hodhod tries to convince them to continue the journey; the peaceful dialogue of Hodhod with the birds especially when it comes to the hard levels of the journey.
This video-music box is a response to Hodhod by Sahar Bardaei, which was inspired by Attar Neishabouri's book Mantiq al-Tayr (conference of the birds). This Persian story about a journey of birds searching for enlightenment and purpose, brings to mind perhaps an American equivalent, Reminders, a poem by William Stafford. I discovered this poem in childhood and throughout many years it has been an eloquent reminder that we need not look further than our surroundings, our selves and those near to find beauty and purpose.
Children bite with expiring teeth and leave only the slightest indention. The rhythm of these marks can’t be repeated. Teeth fall out. Then novelty gives way to imitation. We’re relieved that things can be found again. We rest assured. I dream of playing the accordion with Yann Tierson, painting images with great poet's words, and finding a small place to put all these moments.