Ghasem Hajizadeh (Iranian, b. 1947)

Ghasem Hajizadeh is recognised as one of Iran's Pop artists. Living in France since a few decades, his works often perpetuate a sense of nostalgia that is almost haunting. Through his works, he reconstructs his memories of a glorious past and portrays families, politicians and athletes - as is in the case in the present work - in a kitschy baroque style. With flashing colours and witty details, his heroic athlete appears rather amusing and entertaining and not at all strong or competitive. Playful and dramatic, Hajizadeh's works juxtapose humour, history, popular culture and traditions.