View From Tehran: A Discussion With Acclaimed Artist Parviz Tanavoli
In an interview, acclaimed contemporary artist Parviz Tanavoli speaks about symbolism in his artwork and the role of the poet as philosopher in modern-day society. Read my original article here.
Iran’s supreme leader gives nuclear talks unprecedented legitimacy
Iran’s supreme leader appears much more involved in current nuclear negotiations, meaning that any deal struck will not face resistance back in Iran. But he’s also likely to press for […]
D.C.’s Search for the Next Steve Jobs & Other Artistic Pursuits
A review of Capitol PechaKucha, where Washington D.C.’s creative thinkers, fashion lovers and artists converge to foster creative growth.
Nobel laureate Shirin Ebadi speaks out against sanctions
Shirin Ebadi, the first Iranian to win a Nobel Peace Prize, also spoke in an interview about her fight for human rights in Iran and challenged the supreme leader’s role. […]
‘Shahs of Sunset’ reality show: Is this what Iranian-Americans are like?
California‘s Iranian-American community is getting its very own reality TV show – exposing millions of viewers to the culture, trials, and antics of six Iranian-American men and women who either […]
‘A Separation’ probes Iranians’ conflicted love for their country, says director
Interview with Oscar-winning director Asghar Farhadi. Using a failing marriage as a metaphor, the acclaimed film ‘A Separation’ juxtaposes Iranians’ great love for their country with growing despair that they […]
Peru Celebrates its Cuisine
Peruvian cooking boasts a unique fusion of Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, African, Andean, and native American influences. Read my story, reported from Lima, here.
Iran vs. Iraq: Why Tehran Is Nervous About Iraqi Oil
Iran may have had a political boost from the Arab Spring in North Africa and the Middle East — with some new regimes apparently more sympathetic toward Tehran while others […]
In Tehran, Afghan refugee children find joy and dignity in theater [video]
Interview with Iranian-American filmmaker Saba Farmanara, whose documentary “No Lips, No Laughter,” provides an inspirational account of how art has helped a small theater troupe of young refugees define their individuality and find hope […]
Tehran Struggles to Defend Currency
Iranian economists are predicting double-digit currency depreciation by year-end, amid expectations that already high levels of capital flight will increase over fears about Iran’s economic direction. Download a pdf copy […]