Arabic Oldies: Najat Essaghira

Parastou Forouhar wins Sophie von la Roche award

Kharavan Butterfly, above.
See the story and hear Forouhar discuss her work here on BBC.

Moving site-specific artworks

The film The Art of the Steal discusses the Barnes Foundation's controversial move from Merion, PA, to downtown Philly. You can also read my review of the film here, on my personal blog.

Should site-specific works be allowed to be moved? And who gets to determine this - and how long after the artist or owner of the work passes away do their wishes continue to be honored? For another case involving moving and dismantling of site-specific works that generated controversy, see Richard Serra's Tilted Arc.

The Sheikh and I

This film looks really interesting, as it explores a lot of the issues and controversy around recreating Western-style concepts of free speech, public spaces, art, and art delivery mechanisms in the Arab Gulf. I will have to find a way to track it down!

More of the backstory on Zahedi's film here.

James Cuno on the Encyclopedic Museum & Its Value

See his talk at Zocalo from this week here.

Elizabeth Taylor in Iran

Currently on view at LTMH Gallery, NYC.

Call for participation: women art enthusiasts

Your help is greatly appreciated! I want to hear from you!