Rising Stars: Meet Afsaneh Oroojnia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Afsaneh Oroojnia.

Hi Afsaneh, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
My life as an artist started when I was conceived. Having a prolific artist for my father and a creative soul for a mother shaped me as an artist and art lover even before I knew. I was always drawn to colors, music, and movement. I was fascinated with architecture, tools, alchemy, and transformation. I saw wonder and magic in everything. Growing up I always thought that I was being watched on a gigantic screen and I was playing roles. My days were filled with curiosity, imagination, and attention to details. These were some aspects of me that came very early and easily. So, choosing art and dipping my toes in an ocean of creativity was supernatural and fun. Some things we are born with and some things are learned and tried. That’s not an opinion; it’s a fact. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The only struggle I remember is going to an art university in Tehran after the “takeover.” Imagine being a free-spirited artist and only permitted to express what was allowed by the dictators that controlled everything. From what we said, what we wore, what we put on our face, what we listened to, and what we expressed. I can add to that list. 

Our little art rooms became our sanctuaries where we gathered and shared a common dream. Although the guard was present and marched everywhere in our campus, we found comfort and fun in being resourceful with expression as best as we could. 

I moved to the US and left behind friends and classmates, my family, and my childhood memories, hoping and praying that soon we could have our freedom back. And that dream is still alive. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Once an artist, always an artist, right? My curiosity about life allowed me to experience and dabble on teaching, floral, jewelry design, nutrition, wellness, healing arts, yoga, and entrepreneurship. My life as an artist is always on the forefront or background of everything else that I do. I’m known for my paintings, and also my floral designs. But then I see my students around town. The way they scream my name and open their arms for a hug tells me that what I do as a teacher matters a lot! 

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I’ve learned to know when to ride my waves, when to hold my ground, resisting change, and when to shift or expand. As far as art goes, it feels to me that the more humanity becomes alienated from healthy, meaningful connections, the more we find appreciation for what was once the core of humanity’s existence. Art was not just paintings, frescos, or statues. Art was the life that connected and transmuted our ancestor’s vision and experiences. I know that traditional art will live forever, and nothing will ever replace it. Trends come and go, but the substance and the desire for balance, harmony, and peace that lives within true expression will always stay intact. 

Contact Info:

• Website: afsanehoroojnia.com
• Instagram: @sedonaflora
• Facebook: sedonaflora
• Other: sedonaflora.com