Meet Roya Mahdavi Hassas | Sculptor/Painter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Roya Mahdavi Hassas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Roya, why did you pursue a creative career?
Art has forever been a profound aspect of my being, and an innate compulsion to create forms an inseparable part of my identity. In my family, I was the one who embraced the role of the artist. My fascination with colors and shapes has been with me from a young age. However, life took an unexpected turn when I migrated to America which led me down the path of an engineering career. Paradoxically, this detour only fueled my longing to pursue a career in art with even greater passion.

Creating art is a calling that fulfills my soul and allows me to share my perspective, experiences, and emotions with others. The act of sculpting or painting allows me to explore my innermost thoughts and ideas, enabling me to communicate with the world in a way that words often cannot. The process of shaping and molding raw materials into a tangible form, or evoking emotions through colors and brushstrokes is extremely rewarding. Art serves as a bridge, transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries, making it accessible and relatable to individuals from diverse backgrounds. When we engage with art, we’re ultimately connecting with our innermost selves. Art represents a gift shared from one soul to another, enriching our lives in the process.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
In my lifelong journey as an artist, I’ve constantly explored the avenues of self-expression, primarily through the mediums of sculpture and painting. This exploration is fueled by an unrelenting passion for delving into the intersection of the tangible and the abstract. I’ve chosen to work within two distinctive creative styles: one guiding my sculptures towards figurative representations, and the other leading my paintings into the realm of abstraction. This deliberate duality in my work is profoundly significant to me, as it serves as an everlasting source of creative inspiration.

As a sculptor, my muse is the human form and its infinite potential. I consider my figurative style as my artistic “mother tongue,” rooted in familiarity. In contrast, the abstract style grants me the freedom to transcend the boundaries of representation, embarking on a journey into uncharted artistic territory where shapes, textures, colors, and symbols are my tools of exploration. Through my sculptures, I aspire to convey universal emotions that serve as a reminder of our interconnectedness as human beings. My creative well draws from a rich tapestry of sources, including personal experiences, keen observations, and the ever-evolving world around us.

Both my paintings and sculptures serve as windows into the world of unspoken feelings and emotions. With each brushstroke and chisel strike, my aim is to capture the raw, authentic moments that define the human experience. I’m endlessly fascinated by the intricacies of human emotions and the subtle nuances of non-verbal communication. Whether it’s the joy that emanates from a smile, the hidden sorrows concealed in one’s eyes, or the intricate interplay of mixed emotions, my art delves deep into the complex and often uncharted landscape of our emotional world.

While I initially pursued a career in engineering upon migrating to America for financial stability, my passion for art remained unshakable. Balancing a full-time job and raising a family made the creative process challenging, but it provided me with a unique perspective on life. I’ve learned the importance of embracing qualities such as patience, adaptability, unwavering consistency, and persistent dedication to sustain my artistic journey.

For me, art is not just an activity or a quest for aesthetics; it’s a means to unveil the intricate tapestry of the human condition. Through my art, I strive to translate emotions and perceptions into tangible expressions that invite profound contemplation and introspection.

I firmly believe that by understanding and embracing our shared human experiences, we can cultivate empathy, compassion, and unity in a world that often seems divided.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
It would primarily depend on their interests. If she’s an art enthusiast, I would plan a cultural itinerary that includes visits to several renowned art institutions in the Los Angeles area. We’d explore LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art), The Getty Center, MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), The Broad, and The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens.

I would also suggest taking a day trip to Orange County. We could visit the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. And for a dose of natural beauty, we’d spend some time in the charming coastal town of Laguna Beach. If the visit falls during the summer, we don’t want to miss the Pageant of the Masters. This unique and spectacular event features “living pictures” where real people are transformed into famous works of art. It’s a cultural experience that’s truly one of a kind.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It’s impossible to list everyone who has played a role in my journey because there are so many individuals who have contributed to it. My family has provided me with love, support, and encouragement to create personal connections that are deeply meaningful to me. Additionally, both my artist and non-artist friends have played a crucial role in encouraging me to persist in my artistic pursuits. A long-time friend, Susan Cohen, who happens to be an exceptional interior designer, has been a steadfast presence in my life, consistently reminding me of my artistic identity and keeping me true to my passion.

Website: https://www.royamahdaviart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbyroya

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076654307677