According to Nasim Ardabil, Ayatollah Seyed Hassan Amoli, speaking to artisans and handicraft enthusiasts of Ardabil on the occasion of World Handicrafts Day at the Khatayi Gallery of the Sheikh Safi al-Din Historical and World Heritage Complex, stated: “Ardabil province must introduce its talents to the world more than ever. There was a time when the province’s entire industry relied on handicrafts, and people’s daily lives were intertwined with them. Even without modern advancements, handicrafts exhibited remarkable human ingenuity.”
He added: “In handicrafts, we must strive for greater refinement and higher quality in production. Officials should support artists, as those who invest their time, vision, and youth into this craft often do not earn enough and therefore need backing.”
The Ardabil Friday Imam continued: “Our handicrafts must convey a message. For example, the Alevis in Turkey promote the idea of peace through their crafts. Similarly, handicrafts can play a role in introducing the various regions of Ardabil province.”
Ayatollah Amoli emphasized that creativity and innovation are paramount in this field and must be strengthened. He added: “We should benefit from global experiences, and I expect officials to address the challenges faced by artisans, use local handicrafts as gifts, and create necessary markets for Ardabil’s handicraft products.”
Navid Ahchgan, the author of the book, explained the purpose of his book and the history of pottery in the Islamic period of Iran: “The creation and decoration of blue-and-white pottery mark a milestone in the history of Islamic pottery in Iran, particularly during the Safavid era. This book aims to introduce and analyze blue-and-white pottery discovered through archaeological excavations in historical sites of Ardabil, especially the historic Morvarid House, and to compare their forms and motifs with existing examples in domestic and international museums. This research, using a descriptive-analytical method, examines the influence of Chinese artistic style on the ceramic pieces unearthed in Ardabil, particularly from the Morvarid historical site. Pottery has been a major industrial and artistic element of nations throughout history, reflecting cultural exchanges and civilizational development. Ceramic works, in various forms and types, not only demonstrate the art of their period but also the artistic progress of civilizations during specific historical eras. One notable style in Iranian Islamic pottery that is critical to the study of ceramic art is the blue-and-white style.”
Navid Ahchgan is a researcher and senior art studies expert, a registered member of the Graphic Designers Association, a member of the Iranian Scientific Association, a member of the Contemporary Visual Arts Institute of Iran, senior art research expert, graphic designer for the office of the Supreme Leader’s representative in the province and the Ardabil Friday Imam. Ahchgan has worked for several years in art history, graphic design, and media. He has served as scientific secretary of the 11th University Festival of Movement, secretary of the Best Nations Poster Festival, executive secretary of the Painting Exhibition of Caucasus Scholars, secretary of the nationwide campaign “My Hero,” secretary and judge of the National Congress logo design call for 3,400 martyrs of Ardabil, executive secretary of the National Calligraphy Event of Iran Del, executive secretary of the Molaye Mehr Calligraphy Workshop, and has organized two solo exhibitions, several group exhibitions, national and regional calls, and published scientific and research articles.
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