The art and culture of a nation can reveal much more about a country than its political state. Such is the case for Iran, documented in these articles in the Asia Times from November 21, 2020, and the Guardian Newspaper,


Iranian art heritage.
Iran has one of the oldest and most majestic art and cultural heritages in the world. It spans a timeframe of over 5,000 years. Modern-day Iran is the heart of once was the Persian empire and its imprint is still a defining factor. Iranian artistic and cultural contributions and influence on the world are deep, in such mediums as poetry, weaving, painting, metalworks, pottery, architecture, music, dance, and food.


Politics overshadows art.
Unfortunately, the ongoing hostilities in international politics with Iran have led many people to view its people and its culture negatively. Many of us are unable to discern the actions of a country’s leaders from their general population.


This is not uncommon. Think about your own personal views about Russia today in light of the Ukrainian war. Do you color the millions of Russian people with the same attitude towards its leaders? In World War II, Allied countries looked at the German and Japanese peoples with suspicion and anger.


Sadly, we stereotype people, entire cultures, and races, and some of us begin to act out angrily, even violently towards people we don’t know.


Can art be a pathway to peace?
Art can be a beautiful medium to impart messages of our commonality with other cultures and races. It educates, amazes, and delights if we give it a chance and respect the value it brings. It can evoke emotions deep within us eliciting powerful changes to long-held attitudes and beliefs.


Perhaps, it would benefit if everyone connected with the art and culture of the world on a regular basis. Many of our hometowns worldwide have hidden cultural jewels. Consider going beyond mainstream art and challenge yourself to find the little-known, hidden treasures in your community. It’s everywhere if you open your eyes and ears.


One warm spring morning I drove through an area of town with many African-American churches. I pulled over to the side of the road and heard several choirs from different churches singing joyfully. I’ve stumbled upon local artists displaying work in small restaurants and coffee shops. Historic buildings often are a treasure trove of painting, tile work, and architecture. I marvel at the tapestry of life past and present that make up the small piece of humanity that is my community.


I enjoy the seek and find of local art and culture. It makes for an interesting weekend afternoon of exploration and discovery. Consider documenting your discoveries and creating a public page on the internet where others can suggest and add to it, a cultural fingerprint of your hometown. It is quite easy and fun to do. There is no telling where this could lead you, and others to make our small corner of the world a better place.

Originally published May 31, 2022