"There is one earthly principle and one heavenly principle, and plant by growing roots into the earth and spouting towards the heavens faces both principles, unites them and unifies their contrasts." -Hossein Kazemi

One of the most prominent Iranian artists, Hossein Kazemi began his career in 1940s by focusing on figurative art. Portraits of popular figures such as Sadegh Hedayat drew attention. However, Kazemi's artistic style began evolving as he started experimenting with Cubism and became fascinated by Western Modernism.

In 1953, Kazemi moved to Paris and entered the 'Ecole des Beaux Arts'. Aware of his Iranian heritage, Kazemi was eager to search for a style that would incorporate Persian elements and also be modern. As the artist's work became more abstract, his inspiration by certain elements from Persian art remained evident. His interest in stylized forms from Ancient Persia, miniature paintings, ceramic tiles and manuscript illuminations are reflected on his canvases. Kazemi arrived at his desired composition and form, with its harmonious colours: a wide range of blues and violets, variations of semi-abstract objects such as stones and flowers and thick layers of pigment, which became his signature style.