I heard at very short notice that Ahmad Nadalian was due to be talking about his River Art(represented at the 50th Venice Biennale) in Stroud last night - by some strange coincidence it was the night of our talks on water and our local brook so I couldn't go. However I was determined not to miss meeting this extraordinary guy if it was possible.
Photo: Fiona and Ahmad at Capel Mill yesterday
I contacted local artist Fiona Meadley who I heard was organising the event and managed to join Ahmad at the newly developing Artspace in John's Street - it really is already a massive, massive improvement and is indeed going to be a very fitting centre for arts in Stroud. Anyhow Ahmad was kind enough to listen to my enthusiastic talk about the Ruscombe Brook project (Click 'RBAG' Label below for more info) and share some of his own experiences and journey.
Ahmad inscribes symbols on rocks in situ all over Iran and other countries on his travels (including Italy, Germany, Spain, USA, Uzbekistan, Lebanon). The fish (his main symbol) is his emblem for the human soul, thirsty to experience life. He works with local residents in doing his carvings, and had already carved work in the river in Chalford earlier that day.
"My fundamental concern is the search for harmony with nature, with ourselves and the universe."
Ahmad Nadalian
Photo: Ahmad exploring Capel Mill site for possible carving work.After our talk we walked with Fiona down to the canal where Ahmad explored the site for doing another possible piece of art. I hope to go later this morning to see if he decided to do anything - if so I'll post another blog.
His website is essential viewing - love the inspiring images and work:
http://www.wwwebart.com/riverart/index.htm
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