Urban Art and the Discourse of the Revolution: Examining Murals and Graffiti in Redefining Islamic Urban Identity and Aesthetics in Tehran

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Corresponding Author: PhD in Architecture, Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Technical and Vocational University (TVU), Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture & Art, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Urban space, beyond its physical structures, represents a living cultural and political text. In this context, urban art functions as a powerful medium that transcends beautification and serves as an instrument for expressing ideologies, ideals, and shaping collective identity. The Islamic Revolution of Iran, as one of the most significant transformations of the twentieth century, brought about profound changes across all aspects of society, including urban art. This study aims to examine the role of murals within the discourse of the Islamic Revolution and to explain how they contributed to shaping urban identity and redefining public aesthetics around Islamic values.
Methodology: This research adopts a qualitative approach, employing visual content analysis and visual discourse analysis to investigate prominent mural samples in Tehran.
Findings: The analysis reveals that post-revolutionary murals reflect new themes, symbols, and aesthetic principles which, with an emphasis on Islamic concepts, created a novel visual identity for the city. Beyond their artistic dimension, these works served as an effective tool for promoting revolutionary ideologies and narratives. By intertwining elements of art, religion, nationalism, and politics, they contributed to the representation of revolutionary values within urban space.
Conclusion: Murals in post-revolutionary Iran not only reinforced the revolutionary discourse but also introduced a new definition of beauty and identity in public spaces. This reflects the complex interaction between art, ideology, and the urban environment, highlighting the pivotal role of urban art in redefining both urban identity and aesthetics.

Keywords

References

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Volume 15, Issue 57 - Serial Number 57
February 2026
Pages 85-108

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