Abbas Kiarostami. Born in Tehran in June 1940, Abbas Kiarostami is one of the most influential directors in contemporary Iranian cinema. Kiarostami's early passion for art led him to study Design and Illustration at the Faculty of Fine Arts. Initially working in the fields of poster design and children’s book illustrations, he later transitioned to filmmaking in the 1960s, creating credits for various films and working in advertising.
In 1969, Kiarostami co-founded the Film Department of the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults, which became a leading hub for Iranian cinema. His breakthrough came in 1970 with his first short film, Bread and Alley, marking the start of a career centered on powerful stories of children and non-professional actors.
His work continued to gain recognition, culminating in the global success of Taste of Cherry in 1997. This film earned him international acclaim, solidifying the reputation of Iranian cinema worldwide. In 1997, he was awarded the UNESCO Federico Fellini Silver Medal, further cementing his legacy in world cinema.
Kiarostami’s extensive filmography includes iconic works such as Certified Copy (2010), The Wind Will Carry Us (1999), Through the Olive Trees (1994), and Close-Up (1990). His films explore themes of identity, the human experience, and the intersection of art and life.
Apart from filmmaking, Kiarostami is a celebrated artist known for his photography, short films, and poetry. He has exhibited his work in prominent galleries around the world, expanding his influence beyond the cinematic arts.
