Najva Erfani

About

Najva Erfani, through her art, delves into contemporary social and mythological realms where women take center stage. Her paintings serve as a reflection of women’s lives, capturing their emotions, physical expressions, and inner concerns. In her work, the interplay of form and color unfolds in diverse ways. Sometimes, it manifests with humor and grotesque elements, while at other times, it adopts a more serious tone. Esfani draws inspiration from Iranian national art, including the visual language found in traditional coffee house paintings and mythical atmospheres. Over time, her artistic journey has undergone a transformation. Initially rooted in mythical spaces, her works have gradually shifted toward a metamorphosed world—one where women inhabit contemporary social contexts, and everyday events replace ancient rituals. Here, visual techniques and form take precedence over explicit narrative. Through her sculptures, Najwa Esfani communicates narratives that resonate beyond words. The twisted and stylized forms whisper stories, inviting viewers to explore the intricate relationship between art, identity, and the evolving roles of women in society.

Bio

2010 - M.A in illustration from the Art University of Tehran
2007 - B.A in Graphic from the Art University of Tehran
Member of Society of Iranian Painters (SIP)
Member of illustrators Cultural & Artistic Association

Solo Exhibitions:

2023 - Woman & the pink boat - homa art gallery 2021 - Fairy Cinema - Homa Art Gallery
2020 - Anabasis - Homa Art Gallery
2018 - On Qaf Daughters - Sareban Gallery
2016 - Lion Woman - Azad Art Gallery
2017 - Lion Woman - Han Art Gallery - Shiraz

Selected Group Exhibitions:

2023 - pahlevan hamzianpour and kia. Los Angeles, USA
2021 - Iran in Italia - Fornaresio Art Gallery
2020 - Illusionism, virtualism & Surrealism in Iranian Contemporary Art - Shirin Art Gallery
2019 - Colorful Generations - Shirin Art Gallery
2018 - Drawing as living - Iranian artist forum
2018 - Orient - Gallery&more - Gothenburg, Sweden
2018 - Sensation - Cama gallery - London
2018 - Iran Avantgarde - D-Mitte, Dusseldorf, Germany
2017 - Iran the world of Meanings - Paris, France
2017 - Memento, Painting Exhibition - Vista Art Gallery
2016 - 1001 plates - Shirin Art Gallery
2016 - Persian Blue - Ahwaz Museum of Contemporary Arts
2016 - NAOH, Painting Exhibition - Elaheh Art Gallery
2015 - New Image from Iran - Denmark
2015 - Jahan Pahlavan - Shirin Art Gallery
2013 - Biennial of illustrations Bratislava (BIB) - Slovakia
2013 - Belgrade illustration biennial
2009 - Belgrade illustration biennial
Several Projects of Murals in Tehran & Kish Island.
Illustrating over 40 Books for Kids & Young Adults.