Statement:

What is Khor?
 
"Khor" (pronounced /xor/ or /kɔː/) is an inlet, a small gulf. It is a delicate tidal area with its own ecosystem. This native word for Middle Eastern estuaries is a symbol of middle eastern art, especially in Iran, which represents a unique and highly influential cultural-geological region in the world.

Based on the experience gained from our first event, Khor Art Initiative 2021 saw several changes including the introduction of a two-step judging process, announcing a list of 5 finalists, and the possibility of organizing a physical group exhibition by the artists for the first time since the COVID-19 restrictions. The open call saw a 40 percent increase in submissions from all corners of the country. Nearly two-thirds of the applicants were young female artists mostly in their 20s and 30s.
Khor 2021 was also held online. The jury consisted of a distinguished mix of voices in the Middle Eastern and international art, including Roxane Zand, Anna Wallace-Thompson, Max Presneill, Murtaza Vali, Lila Nazemian, and Lee Ann Biddle. 30 shortlisted artists were selected in the first stage, and 5 finalists emerged from the initial list of 30 during a meeting in the second stage. As the submissions turned out to exceed expectations, the jury unanimously agreed on announcing an additional list of four "Special Mentions" at the end of the event.