MAGIC OF PERSIA CONTEMPORARY ART PRIZE

The Vision

The bi-annual Magic of Persia Contemporary Art Prize (MOP CAP) is a worldwide search for the next generation of contemporary Iranian visual artists who have the potential to make a significant impact in their field. The goal of the prize is to provide an opportunity for emerging artists to gain international exposure, and to engage in artistic experimentation and cultural exchange. Through its archival material, including an online artist database and printed publications, MOP CAP aims to provide an educational interchange and contribute to the development of Iranian art and culture.

The Process

MOP CAP is open to young, emerging Iranian visual artists, living in and outside of Iran, through an online application.The profiles of all eligible entrants are reviewed by the MOP CAP Selection Committee and a shortlist of up to 21 artists is compiled.

The MOP CAP Shortlist Exhibition in Dubai showcases works of the selected artists, at which time the Judging Panel meet to deliberate on and choose up to seven Finalists. Subsequently, an exhibition of the Finalists’ work is held in London, where the Judging Panel meet once again to select the MOP CAP Winner.  

The Prize

The MOP CAP Winner receives a one-year mentorship with a London-based curator resulting in a solo exhibition at a leading gallery space in London, as well as a three-month residency at The Delfina Foundation. 

MAGICAL NIGHTS

Since 2007, Magic of Persia has hosted the Magical Nights Fundraising Auctions. This event which takes place once every 18-month, enables the charity to raise the vast majority of its funds which are carefully allocated to its many initiatives and beneficiaries. This is made possible through the generosity of well-known and established Iranian artists, who donate their works for sale at an auction conducted by Christie’s.

In keeping with the charity’s mission to support emerging talent, Magic of Persia introduced the Silent Auction in 2010 in order to promote young Iranian artists and provide them with an opportunity to gain international recognition. 

Some of the established artists in the past have include Farhad Moshiri, Shirin Neshat and Y.Z. Kami as well as Ramin and Rokni Haerizadeh.

ARTISTS TALKS AT THE BRITISH MUSEUM

At the beginning of 2012, in partnership with the British Museum, Magic of Persia sponsored the launch of two public programmes per year. These programmes, named "Different Perspective of Modern and Contemporary Iranian Art", focus on the increased interest in Iranian art and feature Iranian artists, curators, and critics. These talks explore the oeuvre of significant Iranian artistic figures and assess the legacy and importance of these artists' works within the context of modern and contemporary Iranian art production and beyond. Each panel discussion include leading figures in the Modern and Contemporary Art Industry.