Composing music secretly 1996 Iman Maleki

The composition presents a group of men gathered in what appears to be a clandestine setting. The space is dimly lit, with a single overhead lamp casting a concentrated pool of light onto the central figures and leaving much of the background shrouded in shadow. This restricted illumination immediately establishes an atmosphere of secrecy and perhaps even illicit activity.
Here we see a collection of men engaged in musical creation. Several hold instruments – lutes, guitars, and what seems to be a wind instrument – suggesting a collaborative effort. The central figure, seated and facing forward, appears to be the focal point; he holds a sheet of music and seems to be directing or composing. His posture is one of intense concentration, his gaze fixed on the score. Around him, others are actively playing, their expressions ranging from focused engagement to quiet contemplation.
The artist has employed a palette dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted greens – which contribute to the overall sense of intimacy and confinement. The textures appear rough and somewhat aged, reinforcing the impression of a hidden or forgotten space. The floorboards are visible, adding to the realism and grounding the scene in a tangible environment.
The arrangement of figures is dense and overlapping, creating a feeling of closeness and shared purpose. However, theres also an element of restraint; the men seem hesitant, their bodies slightly withdrawn. This could suggest a sense of caution or perhaps a discomfort with being observed. The presence of several beards and varying hairstyles hints at different generations or social groups brought together for this singular act.
The window visible in the upper left corner offers a glimpse of the outside world, but it remains distant and inaccessible. It serves as a visual reminder of what lies beyond their secluded gathering – a reality from which they seem to be temporarily removed. The curtains drawn across the window further emphasize the desire for privacy and concealment.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of artistic creation, community, and resistance. The secrecy surrounding the musical activity suggests an environment where such expression might be suppressed or discouraged. It could represent a form of cultural preservation or a quiet act of defiance against external constraints. Ultimately, the work invites reflection on the power of art to flourish even in conditions of restriction and the importance of shared creative endeavors within close-knit groups.