“Smile so the universe smiles back at you,” a phrase Rahman Hosseini (Ray) has echoed to his daughter and grandchildren for decades. Born in Iran in 1936, during the Pahlavi Dynasty when the country enjoyed freedom of expression, Ray embraced a luxurious lifestyle that involved travel, frequent visits to art galleries, and more. In 1972, he decided to settle in Hamburg, Germany, for business.
Ray's artistic journey unfolded in 1980 when he began supporting young artists fleeing Iran due to the new regime. One such artist was Davood Rostai, a prodigious talent who later pioneered the crypto realism art style. Ray and Davood spent countless nights creating art together, serving as mutual sources of inspiration. Davood's talents garnered recognition, leading him to relocate to the United States, while Ray continued to channel his passion for painting flowers as they symbolize hope and joy.
Even at the age of 86, Ray remains dedicated to his artistic pursuits, particularly his exhibitions featuring numerous flower-themed paintings of hope in his native Iran. His hope for freedom and his zest for life persist, undeterred by any circumstances. He exudes unwavering optimism, always wearing a bright smile.
