Alumna returns for events related to exhibit of Persian textiles

January 3, 2014

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Mahin Ghanbari, a native of Iran and a University of Florida College of Fine Arts alumna, will return to UF Jan. 10 to host several special events related to the exhibit of her Persian textiles in the University Gallery.

Ghanbari, who received a master’s degree in ceramics in 1982, will talk about her collection at 2 p.m. A public reception will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. The free exhibit, titled “Garden of the Heart’s Desire,” continues through Feb. 7.

The exhibit tells the story of Persian love, family and heritage, told through allegorical gardens meticulously crafted into the textiles. Divided between two galleries, the main University Gallery presents canonical examples of Persian artistry while Grinter Gallery provides background information on the history of the collection as well as the making and use of the various pieces presented. The public is invited to enter the invigorating, contemplative space created by these objects and experience the intertwining stories of love and labor that make up the art of textiles.

The garden resides at the heart of Persian culture, serving as both a physical space for social interaction, religious devotion and scholarly contemplation as well as an intangible ideal of artistry and beauty, manifested in the literary and fine arts. The UF exhibit is a selection of stunning textiles spanning centuries from the Golzar Collection, acquired by Ghanbari.

Golzar, which roughly translated means “land of flowers,” was the name of Ghanbari’s aunt who gave her a beautiful brocade textile and inspired Ghanbari’s lifelong passion for textiles. The Golzar collection is varied, with silk, cotton and wool fabrics embroidered, woven and stitched.

University Gallery is located near the intersection of SW 13th Street and SW 4th Avenue on the UF campus. Grinter Gallery is located in the main lobby of Grinter Hall, next to the University Auditorium on the UF campus. For more information, visit www.arts.ufl.edu/galleries.