APU Art Student’s Exhibit Reveals the Lament in Dictatorial Regimes

Azusa Pacific University Master of Fine Arts student Neda Badiei, an oil painting artist born in Iran, living in California, showcases her exhibition, The Lament at Exit Gallery, located on APU’s West Campus at 701 E. Foothill Blvd, Azusa, California. The free event runs July 18 to 22, 2022, with an opening reception on Monday, July 18, from 6 to 8 p.m.

“The Lament” exhibition is an eye-opening experience that will take visitors across the world’s borders, revealing the sufferings of a suppressed Middle Eastern population. The artist’s work shows how dictatorial regimes, supported by religious fanatics, are still prevalent in today's society and how the killing of ideas, restricting of beliefs and choices and prohibiting creativity, are all forms of slavery of the human soul. “This project not only creates the humanitarian connection to our fellow human beings,” said Badiei, “but also is a reminder of our blessings, namely democracy, freedom of speech or beliefs without fear of prosecution.”

Badiei will complete her Master of Fine Art degree at APU this summer. She has 25 years of experience in art and oil painting. Her passion for art started in Iran at a very early age. She has lived in Dubai, London, Vancouver, and Colorado. After graduating from APU, Badiei plans to be a K-12 art teacher. Developing students’ knowledge of art is her ultimate goal, but she also seeks to continue educating others on the dire situations of people living under a dictatorial and suppressed regime.

For more information about Badiei’s work, visit www.nedafineart.com or email nbadiei19@apu.edu.