The Visual Language of Reza Abedini at Platform 21
11 December 2006 – 21 January 2007

From 11 December through 21 January, Platform 21 and the Prince Claus Fund jointly present an exhibition devoted to Iranian graphic designer Reza Abedini, 2006 Principal Prince Claus Award laureate.

Reza Abedini’s style unites the rich calligraphic tradition of Persian culture with ‘modernity’. On 13 December he will receive the Principal Prince Claus Award for his way of applying the knowledge and accomplishments of Iran’s artistic heritage, renewing them, and making them exciting again.

This exhibition will show Abedini’s appreciation of Persian tradition through his contemporary designs. The combination of image and typography is the most distinguishing characteristic of his work. Though the pieces look as if they have been painted, in fact they have been made on a computer.

Platform 21 has invited Dutch graphic designers Irma Boom and Hans Wolbers to design the presentation with Abedini. It will offer a frame of reference, a context in which Abedini’s work can be understood. After all, most western viewers cannot read the words and symbols, and our image of Iranian culture is influenced by images we see in the news.

Besides the exhibition, the programme will feature a closed Master Class and a public lecture to be given by Reza Abedini at the Gerrit Rietveld Academy.

Official opening with Reza Abedini in attendance: Monday 11 December 19:00
Extra opening with Reza Abedini in attendance: Tuesday 12 December 14:00–16:00
Lecture: Friday 15 December 16:00 (doors open 15:30), Gerrit Rietveld Academy auditorium

Platform 21

Reza Abedini