Khashayar Salmanzadeh (b. 2001, Shiraz, Iran) is an Iranian-Australian artist based in Naarm/Melbourne. His practice addresses a gap in our contemporary understanding of self by exploring how paint materiality can be utilised to delineate the spiritual reality of the human condition. These paintings intertwine western techniques of portraiture with eastern traditions of calligraphy as an emerging aesthetic that reflects a contemporary experience of diaspora and displacement. The globalised world context his practice is situated within is framed by the writings of the Baháʼí Faith, a world religion originating in 19th century Iran, whose culturally and ethnically diverse adherents form the subjects of his portraits. Salmanzadeh’s paintings, functioning as visual poetry, encourage viewers to reflect and meditate on themes such as the self, displacement and transformation.
Salmanzadeh is a member of Second Generation Collective, a collective which seeks to bridge intergenerational gaps, navigating trauma and communal care. Through this he has collaborated with other Iranian artists across the country. contributing to a growing discourse on connection and belonging amongst diasporic populations.
He received his Honours in Fine Art at RMIT University in 2023. His work has been included in numerous national exhibitions and competitions such as the Blake Prize (2022, 2024), Clyde & Co Art Award (2024), the Lester Prize (2023), and Hatched: National Graduate Show (2023). In 2025 Salmanzadeh will contribute to an upcoming project developed by Second Generation Collective to be exhibited at Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, WA.
Instagram: @khashayar_salmanzadeh