We were lucky to catch up with Mandana Ranjbar recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mandana, thanks for joining us today. Going back to the beginning – how did you come up with the idea in the first place?

As a conceptual artist, I draw inspiration from a wide range of sources and approaches when I make art. I generate ideas with a conceptual framework that serves as the foundation for my work. A philosophical concept, a social issue, others’ experiences, or an exploration of perception could be a topic. Also, I draw inspiration from my observations of the world around me, reflecting on my experiences, thoughts, and emotions to develop new ideas. It could involve introspection, mindfulness practices, or simply paying close attention to everyday phenomena. Research such as gathering information, images, and other materials plays a crucial role in the conceptual art process. This could involve reading books, articles, and academic papers, as well as conducting interviews and engaging with other artists, thinkers, and people.
I often experiment with different materials, techniques, and approaches to explore my ideas. The experimentation involves creating prototypes, conducting tests, or engaging in trial and error until I find the most effective way to express my concept.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am an Iranian American, Houston-based conceptual artist. I received my masters degree- MFA- from University of Houston and my BS from Tehran University. I has exhibited at The Blaffer Art Museum, Elgin Street Studios. My work was also featured in the United States, Iran, United Arab Emirates, and Italy. I am currently serving as Instructor at the University of Houston.

As an experienced photographer and instructor, I have developed a versatile and innovative portfolio of visual art that showcases my artistic vision and technical skills. As an instructor at the University of Houston, I teach courses in digital photography, fundamental photography, and digital software where I design engaging course materials, provide constructive feedback, and mentor students on their creative projects.

As a freelance photographer, I have worked with various clients and organizations, such as a theater forum in Iran, and photograpHER, a global online collective of women photographers and some news agencies. Through these collaborations, I have gained exposure to diverse cultures, perspectives, and styles, and have contributed to publications and exhibitions that reflect the impact of social and environmental issues. My mission is to create compelling and meaningful visual stories that connect with audiences and inspire change.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One of the main challenges for all of my students, and sometimes for many artists as well, is the process of finding an idea and determining how to execute it.
Discovering an idea for a creative endeavor can be both exhilarating and daunting. Inspiration may arise from various sources – a passing thought, a captivating image, a surge of emotion, or an intriguing concept. Once the seed of an idea takes root, the subsequent step involves nurturing and developing it. This could entail conducting research, engaging in brainstorming sessions, experimenting with different approaches, or simply allowing the idea to evolve naturally over time. Once the concept is honed, the process of bringing it to fruition begins. Whether it be through writing, painting, photography, sculpting, composing, or any other form of artistic expression, the pivotal element is to remain open to new possibilities and to have confidence in the creative process. At this juncture, creativity becomes crucial, as it holds the potential to significantly influence the final outcome. With dedication, passion, and a willingness to explore, the idea can be transformed into a meaningful and captivating work of art.
Throughout history, artists have produced a plethora of artworks, often originating from similar initial concepts. However, the uniqueness of each piece lies in the artist’s approach to the subject matter and their creative exploration of diverse perspectives. By infusing their work with creativity and delving into different angles of investigation, artists succeed in presenting the subject in distinct ways to their audience. This ability to interpret and execute ideas uniquely ensures that every artwork maintains its individuality while still resonating with viewers.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The rewards of being an artist are multifaceted and deeply personal, varying from individual to individual. However, I believe one of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is the ability to express oneself creatively. Through art, I can explore my thoughts, emotions, and experiences, finding catharsis and deep satisfaction in the act of creation. Also, creating art is a journey of self-discovery and growth. I continually push myself to experiment with new materials, explore different concepts, and expand my creative horizons, leading to personal and artistic development over time. Art has the power to connect people across cultures, languages, and backgrounds. It has the potential to inspire change, challenge perceptions, and provoke thought. Art can shape opinions, spark conversations, and contribute to cultural and social movements. Artists often find fulfillment in communicating their ideas and perspectives with others, fostering empathy, understanding, and dialogue through their work.
The artistic community can provide a sense of belonging and support for artists, offering opportunities for collaboration, feedback, and mutual inspiration. Building relationships with fellow artists and engaging with audiences can be deeply rewarding on both professional and personal levels.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mandanaphotography.com/
• Instagram: mandana_ranjbar_
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandana-ranjbar-581362131/

Image Credits
All of them belong to me.