Dalar Alahverdi is an artist, delicately weaving untold stories through her captivating artworks. Residing in the San Francisco Bay Area, Alahverdi’s journey as a visual artist has been marked by a profound fascination with the hidden facets of human existence. With a keen eye for the nuances of daily life, she employs social, cultural, and political lenses to unearth the unexplored narratives that shape our world.
Alahverdi’s paintings are, in essence, metaphoric journeys that entice viewers to dive beneath the surface. Her artistic approach is reminiscent of peeling back layers to reveal deeper truths. Through overlapping surfaces, her artworks embody a multi-layered exploration, often combining acrylic paint or collage on cardboard and plexiglass. This fusion of transparent layers and solid-surfaced paintings forms the foundation of her collection, enticing viewers to embrace a dynamic engagement with the art itself. The very essence of Alahverdi’s work demands that the audience change their perspective, literally and metaphorically, to fully absorb the intricate tales woven into each creation.
Educated at Tehran University and Yerevan State Academy of Fine Arts, Alahverdi’s academic background is as rich as her artistic expression. With an additional degree in Art Education from California State University, Long Beach, her commitment to nurturing creativity shines through in her role as an art teacher, particularly at the Children’s Museum in Oakland and various studios in the East Bay.
Dalar Alahverdi’s artistic journey is defined by her exploration of the human experience and the layers that compose it. Her art delves into personal and collective stories, often highlighting marginalized voices and untold histories. Through her style and approach, Alahverdi crafts works that invite viewers to reflect on the world around them, urging them to look beyond the superficial and consider the hidden narratives within.
Her art is not merely about creating visually appealing pieces but also about communicating profound messages. By utilizing various materials and techniques, Alahverdi creates a dialogue between her work and her audience. This conversation is one of depth and introspection, encouraging viewers to explore their own perspectives and understanding of the world.
One of the prominent pieces in Alahverdi’s body of work is “They Left Their Home Behind Number 6” from the series “The Mass.” This piece encapsulates her artistic vision and her commitment to shedding light on critical social issues. In this work, Alahverdi reflects her devastation over the displacement of Armenians in Artsakh in 2023, who were forced to leave their homes and belongings behind due to war.
The piece features a two-layered approach, much like her earlier “Revelation” series. At first glance, the viewer sees a collection of blankets, symbolizing the lost homes and disrupted lives of the displaced. However, as one engages with the piece, a hidden layer emerges—an AI-generated image of an old woman in a polka dot dress. Her sad face and the story behind it become apparent, revealing the human stories behind what initially appears to be an abstract collection of fabrics.
This technique not only highlights the displacement and suffering of individuals but also critiques how these people are often reduced to mere statistics in the broader narrative of conflict and displacement. Alahverdi’s work forces us to confront the human side of these tragedies, to see beyond the numbers and understand the real lives affected by such events.
Alahverdi’s artistic process is a testament to her dedication and passion for her craft. She begins by conceptualizing her ideas, drawing inspiration from real-life events and personal experiences. Her work is deeply rooted in her own identity and heritage, as well as her observations of the world around her.
She employs a variety of materials, including acrylic paint, collage, cardboard, and plexiglass, to create layered and dynamic pieces. The choice of materials is intentional, as it allows her to build on the concept of layers—both physical and metaphorical—within her work. Each piece is carefully crafted, with consideration given to how the layers interact and reveal themselves to the viewer.
The use of AI-generated images in her work is a new addition to her artistic toolkit, adding a modern twist to her traditional methods. This fusion of technology and traditional art forms exemplifies Alahverdi’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new ways of storytelling.
Beyond her work as an artist, Dalar Alahverdi is committed to education and fostering creativity in others. Her role as an art teacher at the Children’s Museum in Oakland and various studios in the East Bay showcases her dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists.
Alahverdi believes in the transformative power of art and its ability to inspire change and growth. Through her teaching, she encourages students to explore their own artistic voices and develop their unique perspectives. Her approach to education is one of empowerment, providing students with the tools and confidence to express themselves through art.
Dalar Alahverdi’s impact on the contemporary art scene is undeniable. Her work challenges viewers to engage with art on a deeper level, to question their perceptions, and to explore the layers of truth and identity that define us all. Her commitment to highlighting marginalized voices and untold stories is a testament to her passion for social justice and her belief in the power of art to effect change.
As she continues to create and inspire, Alahverdi’s work remains a beacon of hope and understanding in a world often filled with complexity and uncertainty. Her ability to blend traditional art forms with modern technology sets her apart as a visionary artist, one whose work will undoubtedly resonate with audiences for years to come.
