“I am not confident in calling myself an artist!” says Dariush Vaziri. “To me, an artist is someone who brings creativity and innovation to their work. While I may not see myself as particularly creative, I do see myself as an illustrator, struggling to capture subjects visually.”
As a creator, Dariush says his goal is always to break away from his established illustration habits and techniques, and explore a more “spontaneous and liberated method of expression.”
Although he did not receive traditional arts education and chose to attend classes sporadically, drawing has always been a fundamental part of his artistic journey. “From as early as I can recall, I carried a pencil and paper everywhere, driven by a constant desire to sketch,” he recalls.
Dariush’s earliest signed painting dates back to when he was just 14 years old. “Over time, I naturally gravitated towards painting, yet I increasingly recognize drawing as its essential cornerstone, something I should dedicate more practice to,” he says. “Painting, essentially, is drawing with paint! However, there’s a uniquely satisfying, albeit occasionally frustrating, experience in manipulating paint on a canvas, striving to craft a compelling and beautiful image.”
Darisuh’s impressive portfolio includes creative works of buildings and structures. You’d be right to assume his background includes touches with architecture. “When I was a teenager, I was deeply fascinated by architecture. At that time, I could not even imagine the possibility of pursuing a career as an artist, so I set my sights on becoming an architect,” he shares. At 20 years old, he became an apprentice at an architecture firm, and they soon discovered his talent for drawing. “I was entrusted with numerous illustration projects. Over time, my skills improved significantly, leading me to venture out on my own and establish my architectural illustration practice in 1985.”
Every artist finds inspiration from something or someone. From where does Dariush pull his inspiration? “God, or whatever name you prefer for that ineffable force! Many perceive it as the essence driving all creation. We are mere instruments in its toolkit, manifesting its divine will,” he says.“ It brings immense joy to channel this creative energy.”
When beginning his work, Dariush explains that the first and most crucial step is entering the creative zone—a sacred and meditative space, he calls it. “I understand that this might sound cliché, but it remains true. It’s not about merely entering a zone; instead, it involves calming the mind and quieting the persistent noise of overlapping thoughts, thereby reconnecting with the present moment. This present moment, empty of all distractions, is the wellspring of all creative acts.”
Currently, Dariush has become interested in painting old black and white photos from his family albums. “I am particularly interested in the images that bring out an uneasy feeling in me,” he says.
To stay up-to-date on all Dariush’s work, follow him on Instagram: @dariush.artist. You can also view his work on his website, dariushwatercolors.com.
