15 May - 17 May, 2026
Statement:
mādar is a group benefit exhibition and auction curated by Melika Abikenari and Golnar Adili that presents works by over 80 contributing artists.
At a moment of ongoing uncertainty in Iran, the exhibition brings together artists spanning generations and disciplines—from Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan, Iran to Brooklyn, New York—in a collective gesture of solidarity. Each contribution carries a commitment to bearing witness.
While the bombing has temporarily paused, the situation remains precarious. Critical infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, and millions of people—already burdened by years of economic crisis, inflation, and U.S. sanctions—face the threats of displacement, food insecurity, and long-term instability. ///
mādar features contributed artworks available for acquisition, with proceeds supporting humanitarian relief efforts through Moms Against Poverty and additional initiatives supporting people on the ground in Iran.
An online auction featuring exhibited works will launch simultaneously with the opening reception, allowing supporters to view, learn more about, and acquire works both in person and remotely until 11:59 pm EST on Friday, May 15th.
The event features sounds by Nar beginning at 9 pm, aragh cocktails by Sag, beer provided by Back Home Beer, and bites donated by Golbarg Jokar of food collective Bazm. Attendance is free and open to all; RSVPs are encouraged.
mādar will remain on view through the weekend at CUE’s gallery space at 137 West 25th St. Weekend gallery hours on Saturday, May 16th and Sunday, May 17th are from 12–6 pm; no reservations are required.
Works not acquired during the auction will be available for collection at the artists’ retail pricing following the opening.
Curator:
Artists
-
- Golnar Adili -
- Afruz Amighi -
- Afshin Chizari -
- Sheyda Azari -
- Pouya Afshar -
- Milad Nemati -
- Rambod Vala -
- Sepideh Salehi -
- Kamran Taheri Moghadam -
- Nooshin Rostami - view more artists
- view less artists
