A prosecutor thinks the sculptor publishes false information and disturbs the public peace through his artworks.
After Parviz Tanavoli’s passport was confiscated as he was going to visit the UK for his own book presentation, he was accused of publishing false information and disturbing the public peace. He learnt it from Iran’s special department on culture and media.
The sculptor was said his works were examples of disturbing the public peace. According to preliminary reports, the charge hasn’t been confirmed by the police yet.
Tanavoli is famous for his angular bronze sculptors inspired by the classic Persian calligraphy. Similar motives can be seen in his fiberglass and neon works.
Border guards confiscated Tanavoli’s passport when he was going to fly to London to give a speech at the presentation of his book in the British Museum. The book European Women in Persian Houses explores the perception of Western women in 19th century Persia.
The sculptor remained without his passport for a week, being at a loss to understand the authorities’ behaviour. He suggested that a possible reason was the book cover, depicting a bare-breasted woman.
“I have worked for 50 years and so far none of my works have had any problems,” says Tanavoli, still unable to leave Iran. He may now face a fine or even a prison sentence.
Fans of Parviz Tanavoli launched a petition on change.org to support him. It says that the sculptor’s works promote Iran’s traditions and culture and do not threat the public peace.
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