Hessam Abrishami is an internationally acclaimed contemporary artist known for his vibrant, expressive figurative works that explore themes of love, passion, and the human spirit. Born in 1951 in Shiraz, Iran, Hessam began painting at the age of 15 and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. After earning national recognition in Iran, he pursued formal training at the Accademia di Belle Arti "Pietro Vannucci" in Perugia, Italy, where he earned a Master of Fine Arts degree. His time in Europe profoundly influenced his artistic development, introducing him to Western modernism and abstract expressionism. Hessam, at age 17, received his first award for painting. Then, he went on to win top honors in painting in a student competition in Iran. At age 19, he achieved first place honors in the “Iranian New Artists Competition.” In addition, many other world-wide honors and recognitions have followed since. In the early 1980s, Hessam emigrated to the United States, eventually settling in California and later in Florida. His artwork flourished in the U.S. market, and he built an international following through solo and group exhibitions across North America, Europe, and Asia. Working primarily in acrylics and bronze, Hessam creates powerful, movement-filled compositions that blend abstraction and figuration. His subjects—often dancers, lovers, or introspective figures—appear caught in moments of emotional intensity, elevated by his rich palette and dynamic brushwork. Over the course of his career, Hessam has held more than 100 solo exhibitions and participated in over 25 international shows. His work is held in numerous private and public collections, including several museum installations. Hessam’s unique ability to capture beauty, emotion, and energy has made him one of the most beloved figures in contemporary figurative art. He continues to inspire audiences with his bold style and message of universal connection and joy. Hessam’s art is celebrated for bringing warmth, romance, and human connection into vivid visual form. The French press has remarked on his fluid human figures and expressive tension between subjects, evoking both kinship and mystery in viewers.