Ara Dolatian — 'Lamassu Study I', Sculpture

This work examines cultural ecologies surrounding the histories of present, lost and stolen Mesopotamian artefacts. Lamassu, monumental Mesopotamian relief sculptures dating from the 9th to the 7th century BCE. Lamassu are guardian sculptures, typically appearing in pairs, that were often placed outside prominent sites.

This work can be presented as a wall hanging or standing sculpture. 

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Ara holds a Bachelor of Fine Art (Sculpture) from RMIT University (2012) and a Master in Social Science Environment and Planning (2014). This work delves into the cultural ecologies surrounding lost and stolen artefacts in the Al-Jazira region, commonly referred to as Mesopotamia, which lies between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. Through tangible and visual means, it serves as a vivid representation of sculptural deities, architectural forms, and vessels that have been lost to time. Rather than replicating the pieces, the intention is to draw inspiration from them. The resulting eccentric forms boast unique colour schemes, pleasing curves, and delicate edges, inspired by archaeological figures and decayed architectural sites.

Ara exhibited his work at both national and international exhibitions. His body of work has been supported by organizations such as the Australia Council for the Arts, Creative Victoria, and the City of Melbourne. Ara is represented by James Makin Gallery in Victoria

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Material: earthenware, glaze

Dimensions: approx. 31 x 7 x 6cm