Ali Zanjani is a photographer and video artist who utilizes re-contextualization to construct insightful visual commentaries on modern sociopolitical landscapes by repurposing dormant narrative potential within old film and photographic materials he finds.

Born in 1986, Zanjani’s journey began in Isfahan, where his artistic inclinations were nurtured from a young age. Surrounded by a rich tapestry of creativity, Zanjani credits his father’s theatrical work and his brother’s love for painting as early influences. Yet, the spark for his passion was ignited by childhood explorations of old family albums and historical photos in his grandparents’ antique chest. These moments kindled a deep interest in historical imagery and steered Zanjani toward a career centred on archival appropriation. Currently based in Tehran, Zanjani continues to use recycled images in his photographic practice. In the past, he has also used film frames from cinematic, educational and news archives formerly owned by the Pre-Revolutionary National Iranian Broadcasting Company. He has exhibited in Iran, France, Lebanon, Brazil, UAE, China and the Netherlands and his work has been published internationally in Italy, China, France, Iran and UAE.