In the ancient cultures of Iran and India, the “Deev” (demon) is a creature with two distinct meanings. The original interpretation as ‘Daiwa’ or ‘deva’ in the Indo-European region is associated with light and inspiration, while the Deev later became a symbol of darkness and chaos in Iran in connection with the attainment of political independence. In old folklore literature they are described as human-like creatures with horns, tail, and protruding teeth, emerging at night and drawing power from darkness. They were interfering with everyday life and often blamed for loss or mysterious events. Even until today, people would attribute their fears, failures, and misfortunes—those events that defied logical explanation—to the Deevs. This is similar to the role of the Greek gods in ancient mythology, where they were used to explain natural phenomena and unpredictable events. These figures provided a way for people to make sense of the chaos around them, offering explanations for occurrences beyond human control or understanding.

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‍DEEVAN* represents "queer citizens" worldwide—immigrants whose identities, like those of Deevs, are marked by ambiguity. They face the same mechanism of fear of the unknown, viewed as distant and inaccessible, with their thoughts and identities remaining unfamiliar and out of reach. The juxtaposition of these terms is not meant to imply similarity, but to critically explore the complexities of identity caused by migration. DEEVAN* are artists who inhabit the liminal space where cultures intersect, continually navigating the complexities of uncertainty and transformation. In this ambiguity, they confront some of the profound questions about existence, belonging, and contradictions within society.  

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To move beyond stereotypes and offer a fresh perspective on the new generation of diaspora artists, it's essential to create spaces that welcome the emergence of the unknown and the uncharted. DEEVAN* come together, take over exhibitions, strip them of older definitions, and reinvent them over and over again.

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The project is realised in collaboration with Ānn – Verein für Kunst, Kultur und Solidarität. ĀNN is a Vienna based platform to promote discussions on discrimination against religious, racial, sexual and gender minorities through the medium of art.

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Ayan Rezaei

Iklim Dogan

Anne Glassner

Sepideh Hassani

Reihaneh Hosseini

Hedieh Khajehzadeh

Mona Janmohamadi

Aftab Maher

Ahoo Maher