Kamran Katouzian, Pioneer of Advertising Graphics in Iran, Passes Away at 83
Kamran Katouzian, one of the most influential graphic designers in Iran, has passed away at the age of 83. Many consider him a transformative figure in the advertising industry, having played a key role in shaping its modern development.
His notable achievements include:
Winning a shared award at the 4th Tehran Biennial (1964) alongside avant-garde painter and sculptor Jazeh Tabatabai
Participating in the Paris Biennial (1965), Venice Biennial (1966), and the International Art Festival in Washington (1977)
Founding Saba Gallery (1964) alongside Nasser Mofakhham and Changiz Shahvagh
Working at the avant-garde advertising company Avangard (1971) and later at Carpi Advertising (1986)
Born in 1941, Katouzian was sent to the United States for his studies during high school and later pursued art at a university of fine arts in the mid-1950s. Although deeply passionate about advertising, he remained drawn to painting throughout his career.
In 1964, he co-founded Saba Gallery, which became a hub for young and modern artists. Later, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Tehran Plastic Artists Group, organizing exhibitions to introduce the public to modern art.
As one of Iran’s first graphic designers, Katouzian merged aesthetic principles of painting with graphic design, creating a distinct and innovative visual language that reshaped the field.
