Mercede Sheybani
she/her
San Francisco, CA, USA
Mercede Sheybani, originally from Iran, is currently pursuing an MFA in Jewelry and Metal Arts at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.
“As an immigrant, I am deeply passionate about shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals whose journeys challenge their very humanity.
Through my artwork, I aim to convey authentic stories infused with the raw emotion they encompass. Each piece serves as a vessel for the voices often unheard, inviting viewers to connect with the human experience.”
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“The concept of bravery and the transformative nature of shape always evoke thoughts of queerness for me."
Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“Maker is queer."
"Pyramid of Valor", Acrylic, silver, 3.5", 2022Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“Toomaj Salehi, a young Iranian rapper and social activist, has been imprisoned for speaking truth to power through his music, highlighting corruption, poverty, and the struggle for freedom in Iran. Despite his peaceful activism, he faces grave charges and the threat of death. In his song, he proclaimed, ‘We go from the bottom of the pyramid and knock to the top of that.’ Now, he remains in solitary confinement, enduring torture and risking his life for his beliefs. Let’s unite to amplify his voice and demand justice for Toomaj Salehi, still imprisoned for daring to speak out."
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“In the midst of Iran’s Women Life Freedom Revolution, I created this piece as a voice behind bars, representing the courage of political prisoners incarcerated for their beliefs. Using real hair and rainbow colors, I try to show the unity of humanity beyond gender. Through my piece, I amplify the voices of those fighting for their freedom."
Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“The maker is queer."
"Voices Behind Bars", Resin, hair, wearable, 2022
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“I use the cocoon as a symbol of transformation and the dawn of a fresh start. As the cocoon opens, butterflies take flight toward a new life of freedom."
Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“The subject matter is queer.”
"Transmigration", Silver, mulberry root, 9", 2022Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“I am inspired by the poem of Rumi:
‘You were born with potential.
You were born with goodness and trust.
You were born with ideals and dreams.
You were born with greatness.
You were born with wings.
You are not meant for crawling, so don’t.
You have wings.
Learn to use them and fly.’
And I have placed it inside on the wallpaper."