The Red Chair by Babak Niaraki
“All art is based on non-conformity.” — Ben Shahn
Recently, The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) presented “The Red Chair.” It is a bold solo exhibition by multimedia artist BABAK NIARAKI. A challenge to conformity, the thought-provoking collection of photographs explores the tension between societal expectations and personal authenticity.
As a symbol of imposed norms, the red chair traditionally represents one’s predisposition to conformity. “However, I subvert this notion, using the female form in unconventional poses to challenge expectations,” the artist said. “Through strength and fluidity, my subjects embody individuality, encouraging viewers to reconsider and challenge their own roles within society.”
The Red Chair
Yours truly with the featured artist Babak Niaraki
With background in Fine Arts, Iranian Filipino BABAK NIARAKI is an accomplished multimedia artist. He grew up in culturally rich Iran, thus, his upbringing is instilled in him a “unique prospective that constantly challenges the status quo.”
Paul Frederick Chiongson, Dyl Tolentino, Babak Niaraki, Char Suarez, Jong Combong and Qz Martin.
Elizabeth Sherman, Edwin Valencia, Menchu Sarmiento, Paul Frederick Chiongson and Dyl Tolentino.
A toast to the Red Chair: Babak Niaraki, JP Libo-on-Tolentio, Edwin Valencia, Maricel Montero, Jogie Viceo and Tiffany Berjes
His journey has been one of doubt and introspection. Despite his debut exhibition, “Not Black / Not White” in 2008, he struggled with creative limitations. It was during the global pandemic that he shed societal constraints, embracing authenticity and emerging with a renewed artistic vision. In establishing himself as a Fine-Art Nude Photographer, he continues to create captivating photographer artworks, which were exhibited both at his home countries.
Dance artists: Joem Junsan, Ruth Lazaro and Peter Deocos
Yours truly with Julie Prescott, Em Sale, Cassandra Ang-Po and Rei Hontanar
Babak Niaraki with Tracy Lois Bedua
On view until next month in Gallery 3, “The Red Chair” is a declaration of independence from conformity — an invitation to embrace self-expression and challenge societal norms. Through this exhibition, NIARAKI encourages introspection, rebellion, and self-discovery.
Kitchy Marie and Bianca Niaraki Asli with Babak Niaraki
Julie Prescott, Rei Hontanar and Isabel Cordero
Art patron and collector Edwin Valencia with guest
About ILOMOCA
The first museum in the Visayas region dedicated to contemporary art, The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) is committed to promoting cultural education, heritage preservation, and artistic excellence through exhibitions and programs. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). For inquiries, contact ILOMOCA via Facebook (@ILOMOCA), Instagram (@itsilomoca), Tiktok (@ILOMOCA), or email at ilomoca.ph@gmail.com.
