Interview With Artist Shokoofeh Ramezani
Congratulations to Shokoofeh Ramezani for earning her place as a Winner in the Monthly Art Award December 2024 Edition!
Who are you?
My name is Shokoofeh Ramezani, born on July 9, 1991, in Tehran, Iran. Encouraged by my mother, I started drawing as a child. In my teenage years, I became captivated by realism after discovering the works of Iranian famous painter, Morteza Katouzian.
Despite my passion for art, I pursued a degree in microbiology. However, after completing my bachelor’s degree, I returned to my true interest, painting, more motivated than before. My enthusiasm for realism led me to take independent art classes where I honed my skills, while self-studying introduced me to the history of art and various artistic styles.
In 2015, I started painting with a more serious perspective. However, unfortunately due to being inexperienced and choosing unprofessional teachers, my learning process wasn’t quite good. This made me stop pursuing my passion for painting for almost a year. I still have an unfinished drawing from that time. So, I chose another professional path, however, not a long time after, from 2018, I returned to painting more determination.
It’s safe to say that it was the beginning of my professional painting experience and I started it by learning from Mr. Majid Arvari.
Color Pencil
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
What inspired you to utilize painting as a medium?
Painting is a significant part of my life, and I dedicate almost 8 to 10 hours a day to it. For me, painting has always been the best way to communicate my emotions and communicate with my audience.
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
How would you describe your work?
I began learning art by focusing on drawing live models and academic sculptures like Michelangelo’s David. Since my style is realism, precision and detail were always my priorities. As part of my training, besides sketching, I also studied the works of classical artists like Ilya Repin, Vermeer, Fantin-Latour, William Bouguereau, etc. by replicating their oil paintings. This allowed me to explore techniques such as brushwork, lighting, composition, and color creation and finally to find my own artistic path and to create my own artwork. Artists like Sargent, Sorolla, and Philip de László have greatly inspired me during this path.
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
Can you discuss the inspiration and thought process behind your winning work?
I practiced calligraphy for over four years and always dreamed of incorporating this traditional Iranian art into my paintings. Among the many distinguished instructors at the Iranian Calligraphy Association, my teacher’s kindness and calm demeanor inspired me to paint his portrait. I vividly remember visiting the association with my sister to receive calligraphy guidance. It was then when I mentally captured a moment of him engrossed in writing poetry by Hafez, one of Iran’s celebrated poets. Tragically, my teacher passed away from COVID-19 in 2021 before he could see the portrait I created of him.
“The Spiritual Journey of Calligraphy”
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
Can you walk us through the technical steps of creating your winning work?
I began by sketching from a photo of him, making adjustments to add or remove elements. After finalizing the design, I outlined the model on the canvas using brown paint. Next, I applied a thin layer of gray color, made by mixing ochre, blue, red, and green, brightened with titanium white for a unique tone.
Starting with the eyes, I gradually added color to the face and hands, focusing on details, while the clothing was rendered with less intricacy. At the end, the paper beneath the hand was painted in a bluish-gray tone, and I used a round brush to inscribe Hafez’s poetry on the damp surface. I tested multiple background designs before implementing the final one.
“The Spiritual Journey of Calligraphy WIP”
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
What do you hope to communicate to an audience with your work?
With the advent of modern technology, calligraphy has become less prominent, and only those who truly cherish the art remain dedicated. My goal is to keep this art form alive and introduce it to non-Persian speakers.
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
Can you talk about your biggest learning experience during the process of creating your work?
This project presented numerous challenges but also offered valuable experiences. I experimented with background designs, ensuring the final piece stood out from the original photograph. I believe studying other artists’ works can significantly enhance one’s craft. True creativity emerges when you combine learning with your unique vision.
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
Can you discuss your biggest success since starting your artistic journey?
My journey in art hasn’t been smooth, and I’ve faced many setbacks. However, each time I’ve strived to grow stronger. This year, I’m particularly proud of mentoring students who show great promise in their artistic journeys.
Oil on Wood
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
Can you give us the best piece of advice you have ever heard/received?
First, learn thoroughly and aim for a solid foundation in your craft. Surround yourself with inspiring people and seek guidance from the right mentors. Avoid environments full of distractions, as they hinder growth. Remember, what shapes a person is their decisions and actions, not just their successes or failures. Don’t fear failure or seek universal approval. Let your art reflect your inner self. You can draw inspiration from others, but always maintain the authenticity of your work. Don’t try to be like another artist.
Pastel & Color Pencil
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
As a winner, do you have any advice for artists who want to apply for awards, competitions, residencies, etc.?
Art competitions can be a great way to gauge your progress, but your purpose shouldn’t be solely about recognition or winning. Paint for yourself. In my opinion, when you’re on the right path, success will follow naturally and you become only what you try for.
Color Pencil
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
What projects are you working on currently? Can you discuss them?
Currently, I’m focused on two themes: promoting my country’s culture and addressing environmental issues in Iran as well as enhancing my capabilities in drawing live models. Therefore, I’m dedicating weekly practice sessions to these goals.
What is your dream project or piece that you hope to accomplish?
I aim to develop my unique brushstroke style.
Oil on Canvas
By Shokoofeh Ramezani
Lastly, I like to ask everyone what advice they would give to their fellow artists, what is your advice?
In today’s fast-paced world, instant creation and visibility are often advertised over the thoughtful process of creating art. The latter might be even considered as a waste of time. However, the true essence of art lies in the thinking and challenges behind it. Therefore, I encourage artists to embrace these challenges rather than seeking shortcuts.
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