Azarakhsh Shafieikadkani is an Iranian interdisciplinary artist currently pursuing her MFA in Studio Art with a concentration in photography at Florida Atlantic University. Rooted in feminist and psychoanalytic theories, her work explores the complex power dynamics of the gaze, challenging traditional representations of women, nonbinary, and transgender individuals.
Through experimental photography, Shafieikadkani distorts and deconstructs the human form as a deliberate act of resistance against objectification, confronting societal norms and expectations.
Her work has been exhibited internationally, earning her multiple awards, including the WITVA, Friedland, NSAL, and Rothenberger awards from 2023 to the present. Most recently, Visual Art Journal selected her work for publication, accompanied by an interview to be featured in their magazine and on their website in late January 2025.
Since 2021, Shafieikadkani has also worked as a photographer with the Middle East Images Agency.
Azarakhsh Shafieikadkani
1330 NW 4th Court St, FL, Boca Raton, 33432
Phone: +1 9544156276
Email: Azarakhsh.sh.kadkani@gmail.com
Website: http://www.kadkanipix.com/
Professional Summary
An experienced photography educator with a strong background in digital and analog photography, studio lighting, and emerging technologies such as AI and drone operation. Proven ability to develop engaging curricula, mentor students, and utilize industry-standard tools like Photoshop, Lightroom, and Bridge to enhance learning outcomes. Passionate about fostering inclusive educational environments and guiding students in mastering photographic principles
Education
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art | Photography Concentration, In Progress
Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL
Expected Completion: [April 2025]
• Master of Arts (MA) in Graphic Design
Ferdows Institute of Higher Education, Mashhad, IR | March 2017
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Graphic Design
Ferdows Institute of Higher Education, Mashhad, IR | March 2012
Technical Skills
• Photography & Lighting: Studio and location lighting, exposure control, light metering
• Digital Imaging & Post-Processing: Photoshop, Lightroom, Bridge, RAW processing
• Videography & Editing: Adobe Premiere, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve
• Analog Photography: Film processing, black & white printing
• Operating Drone: Aerial photo and videography
• Sculpture: Laser cut & CNC, Welding, working with table saw, sanding machine
• Printmaking: Silk screen, Linoleum, woodcut
• Software Proficiency:
• Photography (Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Bridge) Videography (Adobe Premiere, Adobe after effect, Davinci Resolve) Graphic Design (Adobe Illustrator, Corel)
• Experimental Techniques:
Digital collage art, mixed media (Resin, Plaster, Papier-Mache)
Teaching Experience | Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL
Instructor of Record | Digital Art Foundations (ART 2600C)
Jan-April 2025 | Aug-Dec 2024 | May-July 2024 | Jan-April 2024
• Taught digital composition, image manipulation, and principles of 2D design.
• Introduced students to Adobe Photoshop and other industry-standard digital tools.
• Provided constructive feedback and mentorship on both technical and conceptual skills.
• Taught stop-motion animation using various techniques, motion collage art, digital painting, and other digital design practices.
Teaching Assistant Experience | Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL
Digital Photography I (PGY 2109C) | Aug-Dec 2023
• Assisted students with professional scanners and large-format photo printers.
• Provided hands-on instruction in Photoshop for color correction and image retouching.
• Led in-class technical workshops and offered individualized mentorship.
• Delivered in-class demonstrations and technical workshops.
Art Appreciation (ARH 2000) | May-July 2023 & Aug-Dec 2022
• Graded assignments, quizzes, and discussion posts.
• Supported students in understanding visual art concepts through one-on-one mentoring.
Graduate Assistant Experience | Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL
Photography Lab Supervisor
Jan-April 2025, Aug-Dec 2024, Jan-April 2024, Jan-April 2023, Aug-Dec 2023
• Provided technical assistance to students using Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Bridge.
• Supervised high-quality printing and scanning workflows.
• Assisted in troubleshooting digital photography processes.
Fogelman Museum, Schmidt Gallery, and Ritter Gallery | May-July 2024
• Photographed and documented exhibitions for archival and promotional use.
• Managed lighting, composition, and post-production for high-quality imagery.
Printmaking Lab Supervisor | Jan-April 2023
• Supervised the Printmaking Lab, ensuring a safe environment for students exploring printmaking techniques.
• Provided hands-on guidance in silkscreen, linoleum, and woodcut printing.
• Assisted students in preparing silkscreens and using carving tools safely and effectively.
Sculpture Lab Supervisor | Spring 2023
• Supervised and maintained the Sculpture Lab, ensuring safe and effective use of specialized equipment (Laser cutters, 3D printers, Table saws, Welding machines, etc.).
• Assisted students in operating machinery and navigating safety protocols.
• Provided guidance on digital design workflows using CorelDRAW and Adobe Illustrator for laser cutting.
FAU Biology Department, Marine Science Lab | May-July 2022 & Jan-April 2022
• Designed and produced marketing materials, including posters, brochures, and catalogs.
• Captured high-quality photographs for the lab’s website, social media, and publications.
• Created video content showcasing events, research, and lab activities.
• Designed banners and promotional graphics for special events and publications.
Graphic Designer & Advertising Photographer
White Studio Design, Mashhad, IR | 2018-2021
• Developed dynamic commercial videos for urban advertising displays (TV and billboards) and company websites, primarily utilizing stop-motion techniques.
• Designed comprehensive brand identities for clients, including custom logos, business stationery, and promotional materials.
• Collaborated with business owners across various industries to craft engaging advertising content that effectively showcased their products and services.
• Utilized industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Illustrator to produce high-quality visual content.
• Contributed to increased client engagement and brand recognition through innovative advertising strategies and visually compelling campaigns.
Teaching Digital Photography
Astan Public School, Mashhad, IR | Sep 2019-March 2021
• Taught foundational principles of digital photography, including camera operation, exposure settings, and equipment handling.
• Enhanced students’ visual literacy by guiding them in developing strong compositional skills and understanding the role of light in photography.
• Instructed students on controlling lighting through various camera adjustments and the use of different photographic equipment.
• Designed and delivered engaging lessons that encouraged creative expression and technical proficiency in digital photography.
Designer & Content Provider
Art Creation Design Institute of Rezvan | April 2017-May 2018
• Archived and digitally restored the Rezvan photo collection through professional photo retouching techniques.
• Conducted studio photography to document the Rezvan Museum’s art and artifacts with high visual accuracy and quality.
• Edited and optimized images for use on the museum’s website and promotional materials.
• Designed brochures, banners, and posters for museum exhibitions and special events, ensuring cohesive and engaging visual communication.
ChapChin Design Studio | April 2013-April 2016
• Designed a wide range of marketing materials, including brochures, posters, banners, and digital content for various clients.
• Developed brand identities through custom logo designs and cohesive visual branding strategies.
• Created engaging visual content for digital platforms and print media, aligning with clients’ marketing goals.
• Collaborated with clients to understand their vision and deliver tailored design solutions.
Wahid Design Studio | June 2010-Dec 2012
• Designed promotional materials such as print advertisements, social media graphics, and product packaging.
• Contributed to brand development by designing visual identities and marketing campaigns for diverse clients.
• Produced high-quality digital and print content, ensuring alignment with client objectives and industry standards.
• Worked closely with the creative team to conceptualize and execute innovative design solutions.
Graphic Designer
DPI Studio | Feb 2009-May 2010
• Designed marketing collateral, including posters, catalogs, and corporate branding materials.
• Assisted in the development of advertising campaigns by creating compelling visual content.
• Collaborated with clients and team members to deliver impactful design solutions within project deadlines.
• Gained hands-on experience in print production processes and digital media design.
Related Experience
Photographer, Middle East Images Agency, Washington DC, USA (Jan 2022-In Progress)
• Collaborate with them as a photographer in Creative Photography Category.
Grants/Awards
• Esther Saylor Rothenberger Endowed Scholarship for Humanities, Boca Raton, FL (March-2024)
• Women in the Visual Arts, Boca Raton, FL | May 2023
• National Society of Arts & Letters, Boca Raton, FL | April 2023
• Friedland Project, Boca Raton, FL | May 2022
Solo Exhibitions
• Lost in a Dream, Aban Gallery, Mashhad, IR | 2020
Group Exhibitions
•Teknica Visual Art & Architecture show, Art Thrive, Fort Lauderdale, FL | Dec 2024
•Thesis MFA Show, Ritter Art Gallery, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL | Nov 2024
•Metamorphosis, Abra Gallery, Fort Lauderdale, FL | Aug 2024
•Juried Student, Schmidt Center Gallery, Boca Raton, Florida | Feb 2024
•24 Hour Project for Social Change, Iranian Artist Forum, Tehran, Iran | Dec 2023
•Woman Life Freedom, Abra Gallery, Fort Lauderdale, FL | Sep 2023
•24 Hour Project for Social Change, Goethe Institut, Hong Kong, China | Dec 2022- Jan 2023
•Women in the Visual Arts, WITVA Gallery, Delray, FL | May 2023
•Postscript, Boca Raton Innovation Campus, Boca Raton, FL | Dec 2022-April 2023
•24 Hour Project for Social Change, Hamburg, Germany | Oct 21-28, 2021
•24 Hour Project for Social Change, Kirkkonummi, Finland | (Aug 13-29, 2021)
•Fascination Bread, Kirschau, Germany | July 11-Aug22, 2021
•Project13 & Central Stage, San Francisco, CA | March 2021
•Project13 & Central Stage, San Francisco, CA | Dec 2020- Jan 2021
•5th National Photo Festival (Khaneye Doost), Rezvan Gallery, Mashhad, IR | Feb 2017
•The Corners, Aban Gallery, Mashhad, IR | Jan 2015
•A Simple Rendezvous 2, SoltanAli Mashhadi Gallery, Mashhad, IR | Aug 2014
•Zangar, Mashhad, IR | April 2012
Publications
Visual Art Journal, Issue #16, Netherland | Jan 2025
Exploring Mashhad Artists’ Life Journeys Through Metaphors, by Majid Heidari, Forum on Mongrel Matter Forum, Aesthetics and Philosophy Publications and Events | Nov 2023
Residencies & Workshops
Middle East Images Agency, Storytelling Workshop, DC, Washington | Sep 2023
Digital Photography, Technical and Vocational Training, Mashhad, IR | July 2021
6th LUMIX Festival for Young Photojournalists, Hannover, Germany | 20-24 June, 2018
Urban Photography, Yazd, IR | Aug 2013
References
Available upon request.