Yasmine Esfandiary is an Iranian born artist currently residing on the Côte d’Azur, but she is truly a citizen of the world.

We recently got the chance to sit down with Yasmine and ask her about her work, her passions, and her life on the French Riviera.

What got you interested in art?

From a young age I knew that I was an artist, and never had any doubt that art would be my life’s pursuit. I was lucky to get into a few great art schools (École Superieure d’art Graphique et Photographie, Rhode Island School of Art and Design) where I studied under well-known artists and exposed to some very talented people.

Painting seemed to have always been my first and foremost passion, and from very young, the use and power of colour in painting was very exciting to me. I was especially inspired by the work of Matisse and his dynamic use of colour and form.

How would you describe your art?

My paintings present the viewer with a dynamic history and a multitude of cultural appropriations and interpretations. Having lived in many countries and been exposed to many cultures, my experiences and visual memories are represented in my work by patterns, forms, symbols and use of colours.

Who or what influences you?

There are many things that influence and inspire me – from vegetation and flowers and colours in nature to patterns and colours in textile, to fashion and of course contemporary art.

What has been your biggest success in art so far?

Being in contemporary art auctions such as Phillips de Pury, Sotheby’s and Christie’s, and having had exhibitions in different countries, as well as being in personal art collections.

What’s next for you?

There are quite a few projects in the pipeline. I am exhibiting in the US and in London, and I’m locally exhibiting at the Danish Design House in Cannes. I enjoy the diversity of working with designers as well as galleries.

What are your artistic goals?

I want to keep growing in my art and have the opportunity to expand and be more visible and accessible.

What do you like about the French Riviera?

I love the French Riviera for its beauty and light and being surrounded by nature.

Many thanks to Yasmine for taking the time to meet with us and answer our questions. Please visit her website to find out more about her work.

Images courtesy Yasmine Esfandiary; photographed by James Pouliot