We had the good fortune of connecting with Asieh Hoffmann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Asieh, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
My main drive for pursuing an artistic career is to bring a bit of light into what can often feel like a very dark world. Growing up during the Iran-Iraq war and experiencing the turmoil in the Middle East, I was constantly surrounded by the harsh realities of conflict. Those experiences pushed me to focus on beauty rather than the darker aspects of life. My art captures simple yet profound moments—those little snapshots that remind us there’s still wonder and kindness out there.

In my formative years, I had the privilege of learning how to paint alla prima and realism from some of Iran’s top artists, including the esteemed Morteza Katouzian. That rigorous training laid a solid foundation for my skills and artistic vision. Later on, I moved to the USA and studied at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, where I was exposed to various styles of painting. This blend of experiences from different cultures and artistic traditions has really enriched my work.

Through my art, I aim to capture moments of innocence and tranquility, offering a counterbalance to the often grim news and overwhelming social media feeds. My paintings are designed to evoke a sense of peace and reflection, reminding viewers of the beauty and wonder that still exist in our world. This approach has shaped my journey as an artist, continually pushing me to explore and celebrate the positive aspects of life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My artistic career is all about bringing a bit of light into a world that can often feel pretty dark. We’re constantly bombarded with tough news and endless social media streams, so balancing that with something positive is crucial. My art captures those simple yet profound moments—snapshots of life that remind us there’s still wonder and kindness out there.

The essence of my paintings revolves around themes of innocence, purity, and the gentle beauty found in everyday life. Whether it’s a child engrossed in play or the delicate interaction between a person and nature, I strive to highlight moments that evoke peace and reflection. These themes embody my commitment to kindness and beauty, aiming to uplift and inspire those who view my work.

Kindness is essential in how we treat others, and I want my art to reflect that value, hoping it might brighten someone’s day or provoke some thoughtful reflection. Authenticity means being honest in my creative expression. Each piece I create comes from a genuine place, aiming to connect with viewers on a sincere level. Resilience is my anchor, keeping me grounded and moving forward, no matter the setbacks. It drives me to keep exploring and innovating in my art. This approach helps me grow as an artist and ensures that my work stays relevant and resonant. My goal is to create art that does more than just fill a space—it should stir emotions and provoke thought, offering a moment of reflection in our busy lives.

Getting to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy. It took years of dedication, overcoming numerous challenges, and constantly pushing my creative boundaries. Throughout my journey, I’ve learned the importance of resilience—continuing to grow and evolve despite setbacks. I’ve also realized the value of staying true to my vision and creating art that reflects my experiences and emotions.

What I want the world to know about my art is that it’s not just about creating beautiful images; it’s about offering a moment of calm and inspiration in our busy lives. My work aims to stir emotions and provoke thought, reminding viewers of the simple joys and beauty around us.

In essence, my art reflects my personal values and experiences, and I hope it brings a bit of light and positivity to everyone who encounters it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friends or family were visiting, I’d want to make sure they had an amazing time exploring Denver and the Front Range. We’d start by checking out some local favorites, like the art museum and the botanic gardens. For a taste of nature, we’d head to Clear Creek Canyon and Bear Creek for some beautiful hikes. We’d definitely visit Boulder’s Chautauqua Park to see the stunning Flatirons.

Another must-see is Rocky Mountain National Park. The views are breathtaking, and it’s a perfect spot for hiking and wildlife watching.

Winter Park is fantastic for a winter adventure—whether skiing or just soaking in the cozy mountain atmosphere. We couldn’t miss a trip to Glenwood Springs, with the scenic drive through Glenwood Canyon, which is inspiring no matter the season.

There are so many great places to eat, drink, and hang out around here. I’d love to share all these wonderful experiences and create some unforgettable memories with my best friend.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I really believe that no one succeeds entirely on their own—there’s always a cast of supportive characters who make the journey possible and meaningful. First and foremost, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my parents. From a young age, they recognized my passion for art and went to great lengths to nurture it. They even persuaded Morteza Katouzian, the top artist in Iran, to take me on as a student, which was a pivotal moment in my artistic development.

My husband, Josh, has also been a crucial part of my journey. He’s always there to support me, encourage me through tough times, and celebrate every achievement with me. His unwavering support is the foundation of my daily life and career.

I also draw a lot of inspiration from other artists. Daniel Greene and Richard Schmid have influenced my approach to modern painting, while John Singer Sargent’s classical techniques have always guided my perspectives on light and composition. Their work constantly pushes me to refine my skills and expand my creative horizons.

Website: https://asiehartstudio.com

Image Credits
not applicable

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