MOP Foundation

"I greatly appreciate the work of Magic of Persia. I strongly support its vision, and value its extraordinary achievements and success. I share your hope and expectations that Magic of Persia will continue as a valuable force for the preservation and dissemination of Persian Art & culture around the world."

Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mubarak Al Nahayan

Established in 2004, MOP Foundation promotes Iranian art and culture to a wider audience outside of Iran, and strives to make a notable contribution to its long-term advancement worldwide.

Culture is the base of all politics; and politics helps direct or force culture in the right or wrong direction. Art, on the other hand, transcends both politics and culture, setting the frequency on the spectrum of political discourse. As a cultural charity of longstanding, MOP steps in to support women and freedom; because without either, culture will be culled into insignificance. Without Women, there is no Life!

MOP’s programmes include:

·The Magic of Persia Contemporary Art Prize (MOP CAP); a global search for the next generation of Iranian visual artists.

·Family days bringing together more than 120,000 people at the British Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

·Art residencies and exhibitions for young Iranian artists at the Delfina Foundation, Parasol unit and Saatchi Gallery in London.

·Scholarships and grants in higher education at the Royal College of Art, London Film School, and Goldsmiths University in London.

·A series of artists’ panel discussions entitled ‘Different Perspectives on Modern and Contemporary Iranian Art’ in collaboration with the British Museum.

The charity’s primary source of funding derives from the auction of artwork generously donated by established and emerging Iranian artists. Conducted by Sotheby's and Christie’s and held in Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, the success of these fundraising events relies entirely on the participation and support of artists and patrons alike. Sponsorships from organisations and individuals also support MOP’s various projects.

For more information on the charity's programs please click here.

Magic of Persia's Beneficiaries

Magic of Persia supports a number of charity organisations and development programs. Our beneficiaries include:

- Omid Foundation, London

- Popli Khalatbari Charitable Foundation, London

- Snowflake School for Children with Autism, London as well as Ilia School, Shahr-e-Rey

- Future Centre for Special Needs, Abu Dhabi

- Gray Matters- British Museum, London

- Kids Company

- Saatchi Gallery Education Programme

- Delfina Foundation, Artist Residency, London

- Goldsmith College, University of London, Master of Research Curatorial/Knowledge, London