Tehran's Dastan's Basement navigates international art fairs amid Iranian political constraints

Hormoz Hematian founded Dastan's Basement in Tehran in 2012 to showcase emerging Iranian contemporary art. The gallery participates in six art fairs annually, including LISTE Art Fair Basel, where it exhibits works by Sam Samiee and Hoda Kashiha. Dastan's programme expanded with Dastan+2 and Dastan:Outside, featuring historic presentations and site-specific projects. Art fairs help the gallery bypass Iranian regulations and reach international audiences, though presentations must remain acceptable to authorities back home. LISTE, established in 1996 with support from E.Gutzwiller & Cie, Banquiers since 1997, serves as a key platform for new galleries. Dastan prioritizes thematic fit over geographic location when selecting fairs, such as Art Basel Hong Kong's 'Insights' section or Frieze New York's 'Spotlight'. The gallery balances representing Iran's vibrant art scene while focusing on universal concerns shared by Iranian artists. Operating under difficult political conditions, Dastan approaches its work as a serious game with increasing challenges.