A Reflection Of Coexistence by Zari Etemadi

A Reflection of Coexistence 
Zari Etemadi
Acrylic On Canvas
30.875"h x 24.875"w x 1.375"d - framed
2024

This artwork is a detailed painting of a small sparrow perched on the edge of a stone, gazing down at a vibrant orange and white goldfish swimming below. In Iranian culture, both the sparrow and the fish carry deep symbolism: the fish represents the cycle of life, while the sparrow embodies resilience and hope.

Through this piece, I seek to express my thoughts on the global political and religious divides, highlighting how people often become overly judgmental, imprisoning, or even killing others simply for being different, whether it’s due to gender, beliefs, or cultural backgrounds.

By depicting the unlikely friendship between a bird and a fish, I want to convey that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same world, experiencing life together, and we must learn to coexist peacefully.

Get to Know the Artist:
Zari Etemadi’s creative path began in architecture, a discipline her parents encouraged over her early passion for art. She graduated as the first female and international valedictorian from the University of Tennessee’s School of Architecture, later joining Jung/Brannen Associates in Boston and contributing to landmark projects in Dubai, UAE.

Her transition into art came unexpectedly in 1998 when a commissioned artist withdrew from creating a large-scale work for the Dubai Police Academy Officers Club. Taking a leap of faith, Zari completed the 2.5-meter painting herself, her first exhibited piece, leading to numerous commissions for prestigious venues including Dubai Festival City, Jumeira Rotana Hotel, Sheraton Hotel, TNT, and XEROX, as well as private clients.