Meet Shaghayegh Cyrous

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shaghayegh Cyrous. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shaghayegh below.

Hi Shaghayegh, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Navigating the role of being the sole Iranian in many workplace settings presents a unique set of challenges, along with its own advantages and disadvantages. The intriguing aspect lies in my ability to introduce a fresh perspective to the space, fostering the exchange of ideas. Simultaneously, I find opportunities for personal growth by assimilating diverse ideologies and perspectives from my colleagues. However, challenges arise in the form of misunderstandings and communication gaps. Language and cultural barriers occasionally give rise to complexities, yet I’ve embraced a mindset of openness, patience, and a willingness to learn from others. This approach allows me to effectively communicate my viewpoint while fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. . Simultaneously, I’ve realized that my success can pave the way for fellow Iranians or SWANA individuals to enter this professional realm, creating more inclusive spaces.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a transdisciplinary artist and designer based in Los Angeles. My work examines cross-cultural, multi-modal communications, especially highlighting the nuanced expatriate experience engendered by geopolitical shifts and their distorted notions of time and space and commonly working with mediums such as paintings, interactive video installations, videos, and performances.

I received my BA in Visual Art from Science and Culture University in Tehran and my Master of Fine Artist in Social Practice from California College of the Arts in San Francisco. I founded the Zamin Project, which aims to connect the Southwest Asian / North African arts community in the Bay Area and beyond.

I received an honoree award for Culturally Diverse Women “Making a Difference” in 2023 alongside Mayer Karen Bass in Los Angeles. I was a Gold Art Prize nominee and have exhibited and performed internationally at venues such as Tehran MOCA, British Museum in London, Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, Institut für Alles Mögliche, Berlin, Germany, Anchorage Museum in Alaska, and Salesforce tower in San Francisco, Netflix Invisible Billboard in Los Angeles.

Presently, I’m immersed in creating a painting and multimedia collection, delving into the intricate nature of love. This exploration spans from ancient Persian cultures to Greek mythology, resonating with our modern existence. The essence lies in portraying love as a remedy for dispelling hatred and conflict. Additionally, I’m crafting another series, a dynamic blend of videos and photos centered on empowerment. Drawing inspiration from Persian mythology and the historical narratives of power manifested through movement and dance, this series aims to captivate and empower through visual storytelling.

In February, I’m thrilled to be part of two upcoming exhibitions. The first, hosted by the City of West Hollywood, features my moving image showcased on the Streamlined Arbor Billboard at 9157 Sunset. Simultaneously, I’ll be contributing video art to the “Manifest Differently” exhibition at the Minnesota Street Project in San Francisco. Looking forward to sharing my creative endeavors in both of these inspiring showcases!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Firstly, cultivate trust in yourself and your intuition, unwavering in the face of life’s challenges, failures, or rejections. Secondly, foster a perpetual curiosity and approach life with openness, ensuring a continuous cycle of innovation, learning, and creation that keeps you in the flow. Thirdly, establish connections with both like-minded individuals and those who differ from you. Engaging with those who share your mindset creates a supportive space for mutual sharing, learning, and community-building. Simultaneously, connecting with people of diverse perspectives enriches your understanding, reminding you that there’s always more to learn and different ways to see the world.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
To regain balance when overwhelmed, I turn to a harmonious blend of activities. Working out, meditating, drawing, walking, and dancing serve as my keys to restoring equilibrium and finding inner peace.

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