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Khashayar Salmanzadeh (b. 2001, Shiraz, Iran) is an Iranian-Australian artist living and working in Naarm/Melbourne. His practice addresses a gap in our contemporary understanding of self by exploring how paint materiality can be utilised to delineate the spiritual reality of the human condition. These paintings intertwine western painting conventions with eastern miniature and calligraphy traditions as an emerging aesthetic that reflects a contemporary experience of diaspora and displacement. The globalised world context his practice is situated within is framed by the writings of the Baháʼí Faith, a world religion originating in 19th century Iran. Salmanzadeh’s paintings, functioning as visual poetry, encourage viewers to reflect and meditate on themes such as the self, displacement and transformation.     

Salmanzadeh is a member of Second Generation Collective, a collective which seeks to bridge intergenerational gaps, navigating trauma and communal care. Through this he has collaborated with Iranian artists across the country, contributing to a growing discourse on connection and belonging amongst diasporic populations.

He received his Honours in Fine Art at RMIT University in 2023. His work has been included in numerous exhibitions and national competitions such as the Lester Prize (2026, 2023), the Bayside Painting Prize (2026), A.M.E Bale Art Prize (2025), Blake Prize (2022, 2024), Clyde & Co Art Award (2024), and Hatched: National Graduate Show (2023). 

Instagram: @khashayar_salmanzadeh

Current:

The Lester Prize 
WA Museum Boola Bardip
10 October - 29 November 2026
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Photo credit : Rebecca Mansell