Watercolour artist Mohammad Reza Atashzad never goes anywhere without his painting supplies.
“My life is filled with paintings that reflect my memorable experiences [see Marine Building and Sound of Glory paintings below, l-r]. Through my art, I document and write my life story,” says Atashzad, who has been teaching art classes at the Kerrisdale Community Centre for the last nine years.
Drawing and painting as a child, he was influenced by both his mother, a handicraft artist, and his hometown of Esfahan, Iran, which he describes as “an ancient city that is like a living museum . . . I was constantly inspired by its beauty and nature.” He went on to study fine arts and architecture before founding the Atashzad Academy of Art and Gallery in Tehran, where he taught drawing, painting and architecture.
Moving to downtown Vancouver with his wife and two daughters in 2005, Atashzad now teaches at eight local community centres seven days a week. With more than 35 years of teaching experience, plus 150 solo and group exhibitions around the world to his credit, he has much to share with his many students.
“I find it incredibly rewarding to see my students develop their creativity and reach their goals. For younger students, it’s about fostering their creativity and helping them grow. For adults and seniors, painting brings joy and relaxation, making time spent in the classroom enjoyable,” he says. “All my drawing and painting classes [see below] are held in a quiet and relaxing environment, much like meditation, which enhances the creative experience for everyone.”
Tap your inner artist or expand your skills this fall by signing up for one of Atashzad’s programs at the centre:
• Drawing and Painting for Kids & Youth (Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.)
• Drawing and Painting for Kids & Youth (Sundays, 1-2:30 p.m.)
• Drawing Landscapes, Flowers and Figures (18-plus years; Sundays, 4-5:30 p.m.)
NOW LIVE! Our new Instructor Bio page has been launched and will continue to grow as more of our instructors submit their profile information.