Artist Statement

Amanda Roya Modesta-Keyhani M.D.

b. 1967

Our world is studded with miraculous deeds and wondrous stories that connect humankind throughout thousands of years. No matter how sophisticated we consider our own civilization, somewhere we encounter primitive absurdities. In my oeuvre, I aim to depict the convoluted irrationality of the western world. My narratives are parodies of the presumption of sophistication amidst widespread barbarism. We need not look far to find paradoxes at play. In fighting for peace in the Middle East, the religious figureheads torture and kill the pagan protestors. Protesters scream to save the trees while using large printed banners held up on wooden planks. The most powerful nation in the world invades a country in the name of freedom. Our civilization eats its own tail to survive. Through the fascinating world of creativity, I have been able to make peace with an existence that can only be called oxymoronic. Art has become my sanctuary in our beautiful yet unfounded world.