Dr. Helia Darabi
Fellow
Gerda Henkel Stiftung
Raum 3.01
Tel.: 030.2093-66236
Fax: 030.2093-66204
helia.darabi@hu-berlin.de
Helia Darabi is an Iranian art historian specializing in contemporary visual art. A Gerda Henkel fellow in the Department of Art and Visual History, she explores the intersection of contemporary art and environmental crises in Iran, highlighting innovative approaches to ecological art-making, public engagement, and altruistic artistic practices. Since the early 2000s, Darabi has written extensively on the works of Iranian artists and taught at the University of Art, Tehran, from 2006 to 2020.
Emerging Horizons: Ecological Visions in Iranian Contemporary Art
This research examines the intersection of contemporary art and environmental crises in Iran, a country facing severe ecological challenges while simultaneously fostering a dynamic and expanding art scene. The study situates itself within this unique historical conjuncture—shaped by complex socio-political factors—where artistic practices have emerged as forms of cultural and creative resistance. By analyzing Iranian contributions to global artistic environmentalism, the research highlights innovative approaches to ecological art-making, public engagement, and altruistic artistic practices.
Navigating through a semi-rhizomatic network of artists, cultural practitioners, and theoretical supporters who represent an alternative practice within the mainstream art scene, the research explores the themes, narratives, and strategies involved in rethinking representation and challenging human-centered worldviews.
By focusing on a non-Western context, this research seeks to amplify the voices of ecological agents from a region that has been historically underrepresented in the discourse. In doing so, it aspires to contribute to global ecocritical discussions and foster transnational dialogues on shared ecological issues.