Farjam Foundation

The Farjam Foundation's mission is to foster a universal dialogue between East and West through art and various cultural initiatives.

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new website! Dive into the world of Islamic and Middle Eastern contemporary art with our extensive catalog, curated exhibitions, and interactive features. Now available in 25 languages! Explore now at: https://t.co/IE0xkc4Y2C 🌐 #Art #IslamicArt #MiddleEasternArt #FarjamCollection

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

We're proud to support All Manner of Experiments at @ccsbard’s Hessel Museum. The Farjam Foundation has lent two key works by Jewad Selim to this landmark show on the Baghdad Modern Art Group. On view through Oct 19, 2025.
📷: The Cream Sellers & Lamea

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Shifting Gazes: Women Through Middle Eastern Eyes
Opens April 15, 2025 | The Farjam Foundation, DIFC, Dubai
A new exhibition exploring portrayals of women by Middle Eastern artists—past & present.
🕔 Opening Reception: Apr 15, 5 PM
🎟 Free entry | On view until Oct 1

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

A standing-room-only crowd, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, graced the Auditorium of the Louvre Abu Dhabi on November 20 to hear the distinguished panel of scholars who had authored The Farjam Collection Masterpieces (pub Sept 2024, Yale University Press) speak about the Islamic and Modern and Contemporary content of this 4-volume publication.
The launch of these books was warmly welcomed by museum director Manuel Rabate, and
the contributing scholars as an invaluable resource for research and public education, and also as testament to the extraordinary heritage of the region. Moderated by Dr Venetia Porter, Emeritus Fellow of the British Museum, the panel included Dr Linda Komaroff of LACMA, Dr Nada Shabout Professor of Art History at University of North Texas, Dr Mariet Westermann Director of the Guggenheim Museum, and Dr Julian Raby, former Director at the Smithsonian.

A key point made was the importance of private collections for the complementary study of art, given the present limitations being experienced at national institutions. More than ever, private foundations and initiatives should be seen as allies not rivals of large institutions, and the role of the private collector utilized and celebrated.

#TheFarjamCollection #LouvreAbuDhabi #IslamicArt #ContemporaryArt #ModernArt #MiddleEasternArt #ArtHistory #ArtBooks #YaleUniversityPress #CulturalHeritage #PrivateCollections #MuseumStudies #ArtScholars #ArtEducation #ArtAndCulture #ArtLaunch #CulturalPreservation

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Bidoun Magazine, established in 2004 by Lisa Asal Farjam, has become a vital platform for challenging and enriching Western perceptions of the Middle East. Through its innovative blend of art, culture, and critical discourse, Bidoun has illuminated the region’s complexities, offering nuanced narratives that transcend stereotypes. An oral history published in Frieze Magazine delves into Bidoun’s journey, highlighting its role in fostering a deeper understanding of Middle Eastern art and culture.

https://t.co/s4XnClO2iv

#Bidoun #MiddleEasternArt #MiddleEasternCulture #ArtMagazines #CulturalNarratives #FriezeMagazine #ArtAndCulture #OralHistory #GlobalArtDialogues #ArtAndSociety #FarjamFoundation

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

“Arab Presences” at Abu Dhabi Art (Auditorium) assembled from the Farjam Collection, and curated by Morad Montazami, offers a new reading of (post-)colonial dynamics throughout the 20th century amongst artists from Arab countries residing in Paris as a training ground in the early twentieth century. The exhibition highlights both artists included in the original Paris exhibition and others that were absent. This will be the first ever presentation of such a significant historical subject in the GCC.
Don’t miss the opportunity to view, and purchase the English translation of the show’s catalogue, as well as the 4-volume Yale University Press publication of Masterpieces from the Farjam Collection.

We look forward to welcoming you to Abu Dhabi Art 2024.
The fair will be open to the public from 20 to 24 November 2024
from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily.

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Islamic Art Through the Ages

Dive into the Beauty of Islamic Art

The first volumes of The Farjam Collection shine a light on the intricate beauty of Islamic art. These books feature remarkable examples of illuminated manuscripts, ceramics, metalwork, and textiles, offering a rich glimpse into centuries-old traditions. The Islamic art volumes highlight works that span from the early Abbasid period to the Safavid and Mughal empires, each piece meticulously preserved and beautifully photographed. With scholarly essays and detailed analyses, these books provide a deep understanding of the spiritual and cultural significance of these masterpieces.

📖 A must-read for anyone fascinated by Islamic history and art.
🔗 Available at Yale University Press.

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

On Oct 28, we launched Masterpieces of the Farjam Collection at the British Museum! This four-volume series by Yale University Press features 800+ highlights from Islamic & Middle Eastern contemporary art, bridging cultures and eras. Now available on Amazon.

#FarjamCollection #IslamicArt #MiddleEasternArt #BritishMuseum #ArtBookLaunch #YaleUniversityPress #TheFarjamFoundation

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Introducing “Masterpieces of The Farjam Collection” – a breathtaking four-volume series that beautifully exemplifies the richness and diversity of both historic and modern/contemporary art of the Islamic world.

Spanning over 15 centuries of artistic achievement, these volumes showcase a curated selection of masterpieces, reflecting the Farjam Collection’s commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. From exquisite manuscripts and calligraphy to contemporary works that boldly reinterpret tradition, this series invites readers on a journey through the evolution of Islamic art.

Whether you are a connoisseur, a scholar, or simply someone who appreciates the transformative power of art, these volumes provide an enlightening gateway to the visual and intellectual treasures of Islamic creativity. Stay tuned for upcoming posts as we delve into the fascinating stories behind these works!

#FarjamCollection #IslamicArt #MiddleEasternArt #ModernArt #ArtBooks #YaleUniversityPress #CulturalHeritage

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

This scene depicts a famous encounter in the Shahnameh between Rostam and Borzu. Borzu is the grandson of Suhrab, whom Rostam had tragically killed in an earlier story without knowing that Suhrab was his own son. Borzu, who is unaware of his lineage, challenges Rostam, setting up a dramatic confrontation. Rostam’s strength and wisdom eventually prevail, and he spares Borzu’s life once he learns of the family connection, continuing the themes of fate, family, and forgiveness that run throughout the Shahnameh.

The Shahnameh held significant importance in the Mughal courts, just as it did in Persian courts. The Mughal emperors, especially Akbar, were patrons of Persian literature and art, and they commissioned numerous illustrated manuscripts of the Shahnameh. The Mughal artists, often trained in Persian miniature techniques, introduced vibrant colors, detailed landscapes, and a distinct Indian flair to the traditional Persian iconography. These manuscripts were symbols of the emperor’s knowledge and power, as well as a celebration of Persianate culture in the Indo-Islamic world.

The Mughal Shahnameh manuscripts are known for their synthesis of Persian and Indian styles. The human figures are drawn with fine, delicate lines, and the use of bright, bold colors is a departure from the subtler hues of earlier Persian manuscripts. The influence of Indian painting can be seen in the lush landscapes and the intense facial expressions of the characters.

This specific miniature illustrates the Mughal fascination with Persian heroic tradition, while also showcasing their own artistic innovations.

A Page of Shahnameh
India, 17th Century AD
30 x 20 cm
Gouache, gold, and silver on paper

This artwork is currently on view at the Farjam Foundation as part of our ongoing exhibition.

#FarjamCollection
#Shahnameh
#PersianArt
#MughalArt
#RostamAndBorzu
#EpicOfKings
#MiniaturePainting
#IslamicArt
#PersianMiniature
#MughalManuscripts
#ArtHistory
#CulturalHeritage
#PersianEpic
#Ferdowsi

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Now on display at the Farjam Foundation: a stunning 17th-century Shahnameh illustration of Rustam rescuing Bijan from the well, watched anxiously by Manizha. A tale of love, bravery, and the triumph over adversity.

The Farjam Foundation
Unit Gf-097 Gate Avenue (Zone C)
Dubai International Financial Center

OPENING HOURS:
MONDAY – SUNDAY 10AM-10PM

#FarjamFoundation #Shahnameh #PersianArt #BijanAndManizha #PersianMiniature #LoveAndBravery #ArtExhibition #CulturalHeritage #IslamicArt #DubaiArtScene

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Dive into the legendary battle from Ferdowsi’s “Shahnameh”, where Rustam brings down the mighty Chinese emperor with unmatched strength. This Safavid-era miniature, now on view at the Farjam Foundation, captures the moment when Rustam’s rope pulls the emperor from his white elephant, symbolizing Persia’s resilience and heroism. Explore this masterpiece at our “Echoes of Infinite: Poetry’s Visual Symphony” exhibition.

#FarjamFoundation #PersianArt #Shahnameh #SafavidArt #Rustam #MiniaturePainting #CulturalHeritage #ArtExhibition #PoetryInArt #IslamicArt #VisualSymphony #PersianHistory

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

The painting by Arash Nazari, currently exhibited at the Farjam Foundation.
#Shahnameh #PersianArt #IranianArt #FarjamFoundation #ArashNazari #PersianMythology #ContemporaryArt #MiddleEasternArt #ArtExhibition #Kiumars #IslamicArt #CulturalHeritage #MiniatureArt

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Fereydoon and His Sons

In the Persian epic “Shahnameh,” Fereydoon, a legendary king, divided his kingdom among his three sons: Salm, Tur, and Iraj. Salm received the western lands, Tur the eastern, and Iraj, the youngest and most beloved, received the central and most fertile part, including Iran. Jealous of Iraj’s share, Salm and Tur plotted against him.

To test their loyalty, Fereydoon transformed himself into a fearsome dragon and approached his sons. Salm and Tur fled in terror, but Iraj stood his ground, displaying bravery and respect. Revealing his true identity, Fereydoon embraced Iraj, confirming his worthiness as heir. However, Salm and Tur’s jealousy only intensified.

They eventually conspired to kill Iraj, inviting him under the guise of reconciliation and then murdering him. This act of betrayal led to a series of tragic events and lasting enmity between their descendants.

- Miniature: Freydoon and his Sons
- Origin: Safavid Persia, 17th Century AD
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 13 cm
- Medium: Gouache and gold on paper

This exquisite artwork, part of the Safavid Shahnama, beautifully depicts the moment Fereydoon tests his sons by transforming into a dragon. It is currently on display at The Farjam Foundation.

#shahnama #farjamfoundation #dragon #Fereydoon #persianpainting #islamicart

https://t.co/2HJ7Yi2UP9

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Discover the powerful painting by Arash Nazari of Nushzad's tragic story from the #Shahnameh. Born to Khosrow the first and a Christian mother, Nushzad's rebellion against his father reveals a heart-wrenching clash of loyalty and betrayal. This artwork vividly captures the young prince's struggle with his faith, family ties, and the inevitable downfall. A masterful depiction of the complexities of religious tension and the human cost of political ambition. Dive into this rich tapestry of Persian epic history and experience the emotional depth of Nushzad's tale.
#ArashNazari #Shanameh
#TheFarjamCollection #IranianContemporayArt

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

The Farjam Foundation expresses deep sorrow at the passing of globally-celebrated Iranian artist Farhad Moshiri. A true creative whose work evolved in innovative ways, Moshiri will be remembered for being amongst those who brought international recognition to Iranian contemporary art. Our sympathies are extended to his family and loved ones.
#FarhadMoshiri #فرهادمشیری

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

The Farjam Foundation would like to wish you a blessed and joyous Eid Al-Adha! May this special day bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to you and your loved ones. 🕊️💫
#EidMubarak #EidAlAdha #TheFarjamFoundation

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Check out this stunning artwork by Arash Nazari, blending rich Middle Eastern history with modern flair. See it at The Farjam Foundation, DIFC.#Art #TheFarjamFoundation #ArashNazari

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

🌟 Exciting News at The Farjam Foundation! We're proud to announce the establishment of a new fellowship in honor of Tarek Al-Ghoussein, aimed at supporting emerging artists in Middle Eastern contemporary art. Learn more about this unique opportunity:
https://t.co/flBicDCKYb

[Farjam Foundation @FarjamFndn]

Shahnameh's epic stories leap from the pages to the canvas in our newest exhibition. 'Echoes of Infinite' awaits your visit – where poetry and painting intertwine. 🎨❤️ #ArtisticJourney #TheFarjamCollection