Artist Tahere Mousavi has paintings on display at the library’s first floor Gallery Wall through the end of July. Originally from Iran, she currently resides in Orland Park. She enjoys painting portraits and landscapes and has created anatomical drawings for Dr. Bahman Jabbari, Professor of Neurology at Yale University. Her artwork gives her a sense of pride, validation, accomplishment, and self-esteem.
Was there a defining moment in your life when you knew you were an artist?
Yes, when I was 15 years old in high school, I had an art teacher who was an artist, and my paintings received high grades and encouragement. I felt very interested in painting. I used to draw portraits of my friends and classmates, making them happy.
What is your background? How does it inform your art?
I am an Iranian neurologist who immigrated to Canada about 17 years ago. During this time, I used to make short trips to Iran for treating my patients and earning income. In Canada, my hobby was painting, and I even took a short portrait course in Toronto. Most of my paintings were given to my children.
My academic background intersected with art in the sense that I illustrated anatomical diagrams and faces for several neurology books. Some of my close relatives were very talented in painting.
Where do you find inspiration?
Beauty of nature, beautiful faces, and vibrant colors.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
I prefer the Impressionist style more. Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
When people view your artwork, what do you want them to experience and think about?
I want the viewer to feel joy when they see bright, vivid colors and beautiful faces and to evoke a sense of cheerfulness.
