Journal of Art and Civilization of the Orient

The Manifestation of the Mystical Thoughts of Husayn Ibn Mansur al-Hallāj in the Works of Erol Akyavash & Mansoureh Hosseini

https://doi.org/10.22034/jaco.2026.524583.1478
Volume 14, Issue 51
Spring 2026
Pages 32-41
Journal of Art and Civilization of the Orient

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Fatemeh Heddat 1, 2
Hojat Amani 3

1 M. A. in Visual Arts (Painting), Sepehr Non-Governmental Higher Education Institute, Isfahan, Iran

2 Master in Persian Language, Department of Literature and Humanities, Payame Noor University, Najafabad Beach, Isfahan, Iran

3 Department of Painting, Art and Architecture Faculty, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract
The examination and understanding of the concepts and teachings of Islamic mysticism within the underlying structure of painting, and reflection upon them, constitute essential research requirements in the contemporary era. Mysticism is an intuitive and love-centered perspective on existence, and art within Islamic civilization has drawn upon this outlook, thereby attaining a status distinct from that of art in the West. The presence of the artist in Islamic civilization extends beyond that of a mere creator of works; it is a presence imbued with knowledge of the Truth—knowledge rooted in wisdom and esoteric beliefs that manifests itself through lines, geometric motifs, letters, and colors. This study investigates the manner in which the ideas of Husayn ibn Mansur al-Hallāj have influenced and been reflected in the works of contemporary artists in the Islamic world, with Especially the works of Erol Akyavash and Mansoureh Hosseini. The research aims to identify the impact of mystical thought on the works of artists in the Islamic world and to examine symbolic expression in the selection of visual elements, employing a descriptive–analytical methodology and drawing on documentary sources. The findings of the research indicate that Iranian–Islamic mysticism is present throughout the surviving works of these two contemporary artists, and that in certain themes—particularly in relation to the thought of Ḥallaj—they exhibit a perceptible affinity. Moreover, a number of contemporary artists of the Islamic world have drawn inspiration from al-Ḥallāj’s ideas, incorporating them into their artistic works in the form of abstract compositions with an emphasis on textual and discursive elements.

Keywords

Husayn Ibn Mansur al-Hallāj
Contemporary Art of the Islamic World
Erol Akyavash
Mansoureh Hosseini
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