The Philosophical and Aesthetic Dimensions of Visual Arts

At the outset of the first issue in the new annual series of Honarhaye Ziba (Visual Arts), I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the arrival of the New Year to all esteemed authors, distinguished and learned reviewers, and the dedicated editorial staff of the journal. I also pray to Almighty God for dignity, honor, victory, and prosperity for our beloved Iran in these decisive times.
Grounded in its fundamental principles, this journal addresses the visual arts through theoretical, philosophical, scientific, and technical perspectives, while also giving careful attention to their formal and aesthetic dimensions. Relying on the profound research of its respected scholars and contributors, the journal seeks to open new horizons in understanding both the form and content of visual artworks—particularly as it has achieved the distinguished Rank “A” among national research journals in 2025.
In the present issue, seven articles—having successfully passed initial editorial review and rigorous peer evaluation—are published in accordance with the journal’s core objectives. While primarily theoretical and philosophical in approach, these studies remain firmly centered on the visual arts: from painting and drawing to motifs, iconography, and installations. They explore the ideas of major philosophers of art such as Kant, Nietzsche, and Schopenhauer, as well as Jalāl al-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi (Rumi), including interpretations of his ghazals in relation to painting. The issue also examines traditional elements within contemporary visual arts and investigates the concept of “the Other” in modern art.
The scope of these studies spans diverse historical and conceptual contexts: from the Jalayirid period and the 7th century AH—highlighting its luminous figure, Rumi—to the Safavid era, during which some of the most magnificent masterpieces of Persian miniature painting were created, most notably in the illustrious Shahnameh of Shah Tahmasp. The issue further engages with the contemporary world and the multiplicity and transformation of its artistic expressions.
It is hoped that this issue will attract the attention of discerning and thoughtful readers and contribute meaningfully to illuminating and interpreting the essential dimensions of visual arts—one of the most fundamental domains within the broader field of art. Undoubtedly, the strong philosophical and theoretical orientation of these articles offers a clearer and more transparent understanding of visual arts, particularly regarding their function and impact.