Abol Bahadori

My mom told me that I started scribbling before I started talking. I believe that is why painting is the most primary method of expression for me. I was born in Tabriz, the capital city of Iranian Azerbaijan. Tabriz is the city of carpets and miniatures. As a child, I was inspired by colorful abstract motifs on rugs. I started painting at a very early age and won the “Best Young Artist” prize at age nine among the local schools. I studied art in my hometown and later in Manchester, England.

I have worked in various creative fields throughout my career. As a fabric designer, graphic designer, art director, and currently, a full-time artist at the Torpedo Factory Art Center (Studio 5), I’ve solely relied on fine arts and my continuous painting process as a solid ground for creative development. As well as a foundation for my professional life, painting is my livelihood.

I consider myself more of a colorist. For me, color is everything. Color comes before shape and form. It creates space, dimension, and—most importantly—feelings.