Check Out TIRDAD AGHAKHANI’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to TIRDAD AGHAKHANI.

Hi TIRDAD, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Tirdad Aghakhani has established himself as a compelling voice in
contemporary photography and visual arts, recognized for his evocative imagery that
often centers on the human experience, encompassing portraits of ordinary individuals,
fellow artists, and figures within the fashion world.1 Based in California, his work is
distinguished by an artistic and poetic sensibility, a unique perspective cultivated
through a life rich in diverse experiences, and a dedicated pursuit of his craft. His
contributions to photography have garnered significant acclaim, evidenced by numerous
awards and publications in prestigious outlets.
Aghakhani’s journey into the world of art was nurtured from an early age by his mother,
who recognized and fostered his innate passion.1 This early encouragement laid the
foundation for his creative path, leading him to earn a degree in graphic design.1 It was
during this period of academic pursuit that he simultaneously discovered his profound
love for photography, a medium that would become his primary mode of artistic
expression. This dual grounding in graphic design likely contributed to his keen eye for
visual composition, detail, and the effective communication of ideas through imagery.
His early professional career saw him take on the role of director at one of the largest
photography studios in Iran in 2006, a testament to his early talent and leadership within
the field.1 This experience provided him with invaluable practical knowledge and insight
into the workings of the photography industry.
A significant turning point in Aghakhani’s life and artistic trajectory came in 2012 when
he was compelled to flee Iran as a gay refugee, seeking safety in Turkey.1 This
experience of displacement and seeking refuge profoundly impacted his perspective
and likely informed some of the themes explored in his later work. While in Turkey, he
continued to engage with the professional photography world, working as a post-
production manager for a commercial photography studio.1 He also extended his
creative endeavors by working as a photographer and graphic designer for various
European companies until 2015.1 During this period of transition and adaptation,
Aghakhani embarked on an ongoing personal project, documenting the lives of refugees
through portraiture.1 This endeavor culminated in a poignant series titled “Torang
(Pheasant),” which specifically focused on the life of an Iranian refugee female dancer
and was later showcased as part of a 2017 exhibition in Los Angeles.1 This early
recognition in the United States marked a significant step in his career within his new
home country. Driven by a desire for further artistic growth and academic rigor,
Aghakhani pursued a Master of Arts in Photography from the Academy of Art University,
culminating in his graduation in 2020.1 This formal education likely refined his artistic
vision and provided him with a deeper theoretical understanding of the medium.
A central tenet of Aghakhani’s artistic practice is his deep appreciation for humanity,
which manifests in his frequent portrayal of ordinary individuals alongside artists and
figures from the fashion industry.1 His photographic style is characterized by an artistic
and poetic vision, suggesting an approach that transcends mere documentation, instead
imbuing his subjects with a sense of narrative and emotional depth.1 This unique style is
further exemplified in series like “Sensation,” a deeply personal collection inspired by
real events within his relationship with his husband.2 This series serves as a reflection of
his emotions and thoughts, symbolizing the choices individuals make in their
relationships. Aghakhani employed a “cinematic photography” approach in “Sensation,”
utilizing a new Fujifilm-x4 mirrorless camera to capture HDR photos, leveraging the
technology and the camera’s unique color palette to enhance the visual impact.2 He
further refined these images using camera filters and photo editing software, aiming to
capture the most vulnerable moments of self-discovery within the narrative of his
relationship.2 In this context, the camera becomes more than just a recording device; it
acts as a silent “witness,” observing the intimate moments and the unfolding of his
personal story.2 Beyond these personal explorations, Aghakhani has also undertaken
commercial work, including fashion photography for clients such as Eric Javits,
demonstrating versatility in his practice.4
Among his notable bodies of work are the “LOST” and “FOUND” series, which
showcase different facets of his artistic exploration. The “LOST” collection is described
as a series of “haunting” and “meditative pictures” captured in California and the
southwestern United States.5 This series delves into the complex emotions of an
immigrant, specifically the feeling of loneliness experienced despite the hyper-
connectivity of the digital age.5 In a unique artistic decision, Aghakhani employed a
technique of double exposure, overlaying landscapes with his own X-rays, which were a
result of injuries from a car accident.5 This symbolic gesture represents his attempt to
imprint his internal experience onto the external environment, forging a connection with
his new surroundings. The visual aesthetic of “LOST” is characterized by “brilliant,
saturated colors” that evoke the promise of life in a new country, juxtaposed with the
“quiet landscapes” that suggest moments of solitude.5 In contrast, his “FOUND” project,
which received an Honorable Mention in the prestigious PX3 2024 competition,
represents a different kind of exploration.6 This project challenges traditional
perceptions of nature in photography by focusing on the dynamic interplay between
time, movement, and subjective perception, suggesting a “four-dimensional space”
within the captured image.6 This indicates an evolving artistic practice that moves
beyond traditional portraiture and narrative to engage with more abstract and
conceptual ideas about the natural world and how we perceive it. The recognition from
PX3 underscores the continued relevance and impact of his artistic endeavors.
Aghakhani’s talent and dedication have been widely recognized through numerous
accolades and publications. His work has been featured in the esteemed Vogue Italia 1
,
a significant achievement that highlights his standing within the fashion photography
community and his ability to connect with a broad and discerning audience. His list of
awards and recognitions is extensive, including “BEST OF PHOTO VOGUE ITALY” in
2021, recognition as one of the “USA TOP TEN FASHION PHOTOGRAPHERS” in
2021, and the PX3 Honorable Mention in 2024 for his “FOUND” project.2 These awards
span various categories, demonstrating his versatility and the consistently high quality
of his photographic output. His work has also been showcased in exhibitions at
prominent venues, including Seyhoun Gallery in Los Angeles, and he has participated in
various photo festivals, further solidifying his presence within the art world.1
A significant aspect of Aghakhani’s professional career is his representation by Seyhoun
Gallery.1 Seyhoun Gallery holds a distinguished position in the art world, with a history
dating back to its founding in Tehran in 1966, making it the longest-lived art gallery in
Iran.10 The gallery has played a crucial role in presenting and promoting contemporary
Iranian art both domestically and internationally.10 The Los Angeles branch of Seyhoun
Gallery, established in 2004, serves as an important outpost for showcasing Iranian
artists and artists based in the diaspora, including Aghakhani.11 This representation
provides him with a vital platform to connect with both Iranian and international art
collectors and enthusiasts. Beyond traditional gallery representation, Aghakhani
maintains an active presence on numerous online art platforms, including LensCulture 1
,
One Eyeland 4, YouPic 16, Kavyar 17, PX3 6, the Academy of Art Spring Show online
galleries 18, All About Photo 2, Myartcode 3, and White Wall Space.24 His Instagram
account, @MYARTCODE 6, further extends his reach and allows him to engage directly
with a broad audience. This extensive online presence is crucial for contemporary
artists to increase visibility and connect with the global art community. It is worth noting
that information regarding Myartcode as a studio or representation is present across
multiple platforms 3; however, the associated website appears to be suspended 3, which
might indicate a shift in his online presence or representation that warrants further
investigation.
In conclusion, Tirdad Aghakhani’s artistic journey is marked by a continuous evolution
and a deep engagement with the human condition and the world around him. From his
early passion nurtured by his mother and his foundational training in graphic design
through the significant personal and professional challenges of immigration to his
current standing as an award-winning photographer and visual artist, Aghakhani has
consistently demonstrated a unique and compelling artistic vision. His exploration of
themes ranging from personal relationships and emotional vulnerability to the immigrant
experience and the perception of nature showcases his work’s remarkable breadth and
depth. The numerous awards and publications he has received, coupled with his active
presence on various online platforms, underscore his significant contributions to
contemporary photography. Aghakhani’s work offers a poignant and often poetic
perspective on the complexities of human experience, solidifying his position as a
noteworthy figure in the modern art scene.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has never been a smooth journey. In my most recent project, titled “CONJUNCTION,” I shared my ten-year story in a visual manner, highlighting the challenges of illness, surgery, and the physical and mental struggles I faced. However, I learned a crucial lesson: to channel negative energy into positive and healing artwork.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a visual artist, I perceive my studio as a creative haven. My diverse background in painting and graphic design allows me to explore various mediums without limitations. Developing unique techniques for each project elevates my creative expression and fosters a profound sense of innovation. While my works are inspired by photography, they transcend the boundaries of traditional photography. They present a fresh and imaginative perspective, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in my artistic vision of the world. The ultimate satisfaction for an artist lies in enabling others to experience their unique creations.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
It is often said that taking risks is essential for achieving success. However, I propose replacing the term “risk” with “chance” to gain a more nuanced understanding. By doing so, we recognize that the chances we seize are not necessarily the risks we undertake in our lives.
For instance, I made a significant risk when I left my home country, Iran, in 2012. As a gay artist in the Islamic Republic of Iran, I faced substantial challenges and knew that my survival would be uncertain. Nevertheless, I decided to take a chance and embark on a new chapter of my life. Today, I am here, fulfilling my dreams and living a fulfilling life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.myartcode.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tirdad_aghakhani/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tirdad-aghakhani-17a731302/
• Other: https://www.vogue.com/photovogue/photographers/

Image Credits
All photo credits are under my name, “TIRDAD AGHAKHANI,” and my studio’s name “MYARTCODE.”