The Extraordinary Journey of Behjat Sadr: 5 Ways She Revolutionized Modern Art
Death and Legacy
Despite being diagnosed with breast cancer in the 1980s, Behjat Sadr continued to paint with undiminished passion. She passed away from a heart attack on 10 August 2009 at the age of 85 while swimming in Corsica, fulfilling her oft-expressed wish to die in the sea.
Behjat Sadr was a trailblazer, the first female contemporary painter in Iran to be considered on par with her male colleagues. Her bold, abstract works and innovative techniques have left an indelible mark on the art world.
In 2006, Sadr was the subject of a documentary film titled “Behjat Sadr: Time Suspended,” directed by Mitra Farahani. This film features footage of Sadr at work and includes extensive interviews, offering a deep insight into her creative process and personal journey.
To preserve and enhance her legacy, the Behjat Sadr Endowment Fund (Fonds de Dotation Behjat Sadr) was established in 2020. This endowment aims to protect her works and ensure that future generations can appreciate her contributions to modern art.
