Born 1956

Gonbad Kavoos, Iran

Tatari’s work reflects the tribal, mystical and colorful background of his homeland, Turkmen Sahara in northeastern region of Iran. Tatari's large wall hangings on textile reflect a happy mélange of styles, reminiscent of his Central Asian roots, Iranian miniatures, icons and Fauvist images.


We see figurative forms verging on the abstract, some representing the intimate rituals of family life, domestic scenes, mostly of women, the custodians of the visual expression of the tribe. Other compositions resemble nomad encampments, saintly figures or dancing dervishes, framed often by indecipherable phrases and prayers.


A recurring motif in Tatari's work is the square, reflecting the Kaaba - the ultimate sacred square and the four sacred elements of earth, water, fire and the air, and their relation to mankind. Another repeated theme is the image of a "Tchacho" also known as "Chador Shab" (the night veil), the personal silk cover used for weddings and funerals, which with its green, purple and red colors connects life to death.


The dominant red and orange in the paintings reflect the colors of the Turkmen region; the blue refers to the Sea; the figures, semi-abstract undefined forms, whether male or female, revealed; their luminous serenity reflecting sacred moments. Tatari's sensual paintings radiate warm luscious colors, often reflecting what could be called a nearly religious feeling for life.


Tatari teaches fine arts at the University of Tehran and has exhibited extensively since 1992 worldwide. His works can be seen in the Tehran Museum of Modem Art, The British Museum, London and The Jordan Museum, Amman.