Woman Life Freedom Project is PAIRI DAEZA’s scarf collection in collaboration with twelve Iranian artists from all over the world: Ardeshir Tabrizi, Arghavan Khosravi, Hana Shahnavaz, Hanieh Ghashghaei, Mahboubeh Absalan, Maryam Keyhani, Maryam Sefati, Mona Danesh, Rahiilzz, Sara Emami, Tala Madani and Yasaman Rezaee.
Each artist has created a unique design, incorporating messages related to the current revolution in Iran, with the hope that these messages would travel through places and keep alive the conversation about this women-led revolution.
All profit from sales of the scarves will go to the Abdorrahman Boroumand Center (www.iranrights.org) to support the movement in Iran.
Ardeshir Tabriz Statement: My scarf design is based on a study that pays homage to Persian cultural and literary heritage by referencing the Shahnama, an epic poem by Ferdowsi. By drawing upon the story of the hero protagonist, Faraydun, who frees his people from an evil king, I aim to stay true to my artistic practice while also creating meaningful connections to current affairs in Iran. The colourful abstract centre of the scarf is surrounded by four angels facing the words Zan (Woman), Zandegi (Life), Azadi (Freedom) and Liberta to create a visual yet wearable object that finds a powerful balance between aesthetics and message.
The label’s moniker, PAIRI DAEZA, means ‘walled garden’ in ancient Persian. Persian gardens are so exceptional that the term ‘Pairi Daeza’ became a loanword and shaped the concept of godly paradise in many languages. Centred on versatile, avant-garde pieces imbued with symbolism, the brand’s wardrobe fuses European fabrics, modern cuts and ancestral Persian artisanal techniques, lovingly crafted on the wings of diversity, self-expression, freedom, inclusivity and sustainability.
Behind the brand stand two Iranian sisters looking to change the image of Iran and reclaim the country’s endangered heritage for a new future. Made in Italy, where the sisters are now based, but fueled by dreams of ancient Persia, the label’s collections are produced in collaboration with small, marginalised communities of artisans living in Iran.