Soli Kiani

Born in 1981 in Shiraz, Iran, Soli Kiani is an artist whose work explores themes of censorship, identity and the social conditions of people in Islamic Republic of Iran. After moving to Austria in 2000, Kiani developed a diverse artistic practice that includes painting, photography, sculpture, collage, and drawing. Her work often explores the symbolic use of fabric, particularly the chador, to question who decides what is visible and what is concealed. Kiani’s art is political and conceptual in nature, frequently addressing the oppression, dependency, and subordination of women under patriarchal systems.

Kiani’s artistic journey is also a personal exploration of her own identity, shaped by her experiences growing up in a strictly religious and gender-segregated society. In recent years, Kiani has continued to push the boundaries of her art, using it as a means of challenging social norms and giving voice to the invisible. Through her unique blend of autobiographical reflection and formal innovation, Soli Kiani remains a vital figure in contemporary art, shedding light on issues far beyond her own cultural background.

Work