Travelling Through Art: A Journey of Connection, Culture, and Creativity.

Happy New Year 2025, Art Lovers!

We are back from our Middle Eastern travels and what an unforgettable journey it has been!

When you travel, you don’t just visit places—you meet yourself.

You discover new facets of your being that you didn’t know existed, and you come back changed. For me, this transformation is inseparable from art and culture. Every new destination offers a fresh canvas, and every encounter is a stroke of colour, enriching my understanding of the world.  

Our team has just returned from an incredible adventure. We started in Türkiye and spent the majority of our time in Iran, where I had the privilege of reuniting with my Persian family. I was immersed in the region's immense creativity and deep cultural heritage, which has always been a profound source of inspiration for me.

Art and Travel Create Experiences

Art and travel, for me, are interwoven. Together, they create experiences that are more than just memories—they are transformative. Through art, we transmit emotions and through travel, we transform our understanding of ourselves. It’s as if we’re transferring our inner essence into a wave of emotion that engages all our senses. Each journey I take—whether to a distant continent or a nearby town—makes me feel more connected to the world and, in turn, to myself. The deeper I travel into other cultures, the more I discover about human nature, and each time, I return to being a more enlightened, understanding, and appreciative person.

During my recent trip to Iran, I was struck by the richness of Persian culture. I could not wait to meet my Persian family—my in-laws and my brothers from another mother! But it wasn’t just the people who left a lasting impression; it was the places, the history, and, most importantly, the art. Every corner seemed to offer a new narrative, a new story, and I found myself profoundly moved by the beauty around me.

A Journey Through History and Art

One of the highlights of my trip (and there were many!) was finally visiting the majestic Azadi Tower in Tehran—originally named the King’s Memorial (Shahyad Tower). Commissioned to mark 2,500 years of the Persian Empire, this monumental structure beautifully encapsulates the grandeur of Persian history and culture. For years, it had been on my bucket list, and it did not disappoint. I stood there, awestruck by the sheer scale of its design, which reflects the strength and resilience of a nation.

Equally moving was my visit to the tomb of the great Persian poet Hafez, where my husband gifted me a beautiful yellow scarf inscribed with one of Hafez’s timeless poems. Standing there in the tranquil space, enveloped by the profound energy of the place, I was reminded of how art, both visual and written, serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting us all to our shared humanity.

Another unforgettable experience was spending over two hours at the Persepolis (the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, c. 550-330BC) and then at the tomb of Cyrus the Great, a ruler whose legacy of peace and tolerance remains unmatched. It was deeply disappointing to see that the current regime has failed to recognise his monumental contributions to global peace. Nonetheless, visiting his tomb reminded me of the power of good leadership—something the world desperately needs today.

The Colour and Creativity of Persia

For me, art and travel equal happiness, and this trip, in particular, further fuelled my passion for exploring the intersection of creativity, culture, and human connection. The sheer vibrancy and diversity of the colours in Iran were unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. From the deep yellows of the thermeh textiles in the beautiful, historical town of Yazd to the striking Marquetry Inlay (Khatam Kari) Bowl I fell in love with in Esfahan, the country was an endless kaleidoscope of inspiration.

One of my most emotional experiences was visiting the many beautiful mosques, where I found myself moved to tears by the muezzins’ voices calling the faithful to prayer. The spiritual energy in those places was palpable, reminding me once again that the present is a true gift. If only we could all pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us—whether in nature, in art, or in the moments we share with others. During my recent journey through Iran, I had the privilege of experiencing some of the country’s most breathtaking and architecturally stunning mosques, each a unique testament to the artistry and cultural heritage of Islamic architecture. Three mosques, in particular, stood out in their beauty and intricate design, leaving me in awe of their symmetry and delicate craftsmanship.

The first of these was the 700-year-old Qazvin Mosque, a magnificent example of medieval Islamic architecture. This mosque, rich in history and design, is not only a treasure of Persian craftsmanship but also a remarkable masterpiece of geometric symmetry. The delicately designed domes and arches are meticulously proportioned, and the mosque’s vast courtyard and prayer hall reflect the spiritual depth of the region. The intricate tilework, with its deep blues and earth tones, evokes a sense of serenity and awe, creating an atmosphere of reverence. The mosque’s perfect symmetry, combined with its timeless beauty, speaks to a rich history, with every tile and arch seemingly telling the stories of centuries past.

 Next, I visited the Pink Mosque in Shiraz, known as Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (image featured in this blog). This mosque is an absolute gem of Persian architecture, renowned for its vibrant stained-glass windows. When sunlight filters through these windows, it creates an ethereal spectacle of coloured light, casting intricate patterns across the floors and walls. The perfect symmetry of the structure, combined with the dazzling interplay of light and colour, evokes a sense of calm and spiritual transcendence. The mosque’s design is a harmonious blend of Persian and Islamic influences, with exquisite tilework, delicate floral patterns, and arches that draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of grandeur and peacefulness. The best time to visit to see the stunning kaleidoscope of colours reflecting through the windows is around 8.30-9 am (wintertime).

Lastly, the mosque in Yazd - the whole historical town and very relaxed and kind people left an indelible mark on my memory. I adore the historical town of Yazd and it should be a must-see when visiting Iran!! The desert city’s mosque stands as a testament to the art of blending architectural beauty with the challenges of the harsh desert environment. The mosque’s symmetrical design, particularly its minarets, creates a sense of balance and harmony against the arid backdrop. The use of light and shadow here is also remarkable—much like the Pink Mosque, Yazd’s mosque seems to come alive with the changing light of the day, its patterns shifting as the sun moves across the sky. The mosque’s elegance, combined with the solitude of the desert, provides a peaceful and almost meditative atmosphere.

Each of these mosques embodies not only architectural precision but also deep spiritual significance. Their symmetrical beauty and intricate designs reflect a rich cultural and religious history that continues to inspire awe in all who visit. Through these structures, Iran’s artistic and architectural heritage is not merely preserved but is celebrated as a living expression of faith and artistry.

In the end, this journey was not just one of geographical exploration, but of inner transformation. After meeting countless incredible people and hearing their stories, I felt more connected than ever before. It is through these connections that we truly begin to understand the world and our place within it.

Art as a Gateway to Connection

Art has a unique ability to bring us together, no matter where we are from or where we are going. As I reflect on my travels and the people I met along the way, I am reminded of the power of art to transcend boundaries and foster a deeper understanding of our shared humanity. It is through creativity that we can connect, heal, and grow—together.

As we begin this new year, I am excited to announce some exciting events at our gallery. We will be welcoming several new artists, including New Zealand’s renowned Anna Filimonova, whose solo exhibition, Chromatic Concepts, will open on 2nd February. Anna’s new collection of cityscapes is a beautiful fusion of vibrant colours and thought-provoking perspectives. Some of our followers may remember her surreal works from our galleries in New Zealand, and we’re thrilled to bring her latest pieces to our space.

We will also be welcoming back the famous ‘Grubbs’ figurines by Seward—a playful, colourful collection that promises to bring joy to all. These delightful pieces make perfect gifts and are now available at affordable prices.

Visit us at miracorbovaart.com If you’re in Sydney, I invite you to visit us for the opening of Anna’s exhibition or contact us for a private viewing. Art is meant to be experienced, and I look forward to connecting with you all through the power of creativity.

As we embrace the new year, let us remember to be present and to live life to the fullest. Not everyone has the luxury of choice, and we must never forget that. I pray for peace, for wise and compassionate leaders across the world, and an end to senseless wars and oppressive regimes. May we all live in freedom, harmony, and understanding.

Let’s stay connected through healing arts and the shared language of creativity.

Warm wishes for the new year,

Mira Corbova
Artist | Curator | Storyteller