Zawyeh Gallery in Dubai has opened an exhibition titled Whispers of Legends by Iranian artist Leila Eskandari.

In “Whispers of Legends”, Eskandari transports viewers into a realm where myth and reality intertwine, creating dynamic compositions that draw from Iranian folklore and personal reflections.

The exhibition serves as a visual journey through the artist’s imagination, exploring the timeless power of storytelling to transcend cultural boundaries and resonate with the human experience.

Eskandari’s inspiration for this series stems from the Shahnameh, or the Book of Kings, an ancient Persian epic poem filled with mythical figures and historical tales. Since childhood, Eskandari has been fascinated by the rich narratives woven within the Shahnameh, and in Whispers of Legends, she breathes new life into these stories through vibrant colours, fluid forms, and intricate patterns.

“Everywhere I have ventured, I have endeavoured to forge connections between the spaces and characters from those tales and the environment that surrounds me,” says Eskandari. Her paintings blur the lines between myth and reality, exploring a world where mountains merge with the sky, and hybrid figures dance amidst domestic settings.

Through her intense colour palette and undulating lines, Eskandari captures ephemeral moments that evoke a sense of hope amidst darkness. Each painting serves as a collage of cultural references, personal memories, and emotional states within Eskandari’s mythical realm.

The exhibition continues through July 28.