“In December of 2017, I traveled to Iran with the intention of visiting the historic cities of Isfahan and Shiraz.  It was not my first trip to those two cities, however, growing up in Tehran-the capital of Iran-and maybe like many other Tehranis, I was too proud of my hometown to genuinely appreciate the art and history of anywhere else in Iran.  Even though I had enjoyed all my previous trips, the level of my appreciation of the cities was, “Oh, that was beautiful.  I had a good time.”

“This time was different.  I guess 20 years of being away from my home country made me realize how I had taken for granted all the opportunities I had had in my life to enjoy and really appreciate the art and culture of all my people.  It was during this trip that I learned that some of the beauties of Iran are not only unique within the country itself, but are also unique in the Middle East and Asia.  With March 20th (the vernal equinox), celebrated as the New Year (“Nowruz”) in Persian culture, right around the corner, I decided to share my experience with you.  Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.”

See this exhibit in the first floor lobby and Emery cases.