Farhad Ahrarnia holds a degree in Experimental and Documentary Film Theory and Practice from the Northern Media School, Sheffield Hallam University, UK. 

Ahrarnia’s practice comprises a diverse range of meticulously crafted works that cover questions of ideological narratives, national identity and intercultural exchange. He is deeply influenced by the traditions of his hometown Shiraz. His methodology consists of ancient techniques associated with its indigenous culture such as embroidery, metalwork and mosaic, which serve to draw on sociocultural constructions and motives that reference national codes. By juxtaposing traditional Orientalist craft techniques and paragons of popular culture, Ahrarnia thus explores the dichotomy between Islamic traditions and Western society’s aspiration for progress and modernity.

Select solo shows include, Something for the Touts, the Nuns, the Grocery Clerks and You, Lawrie Shabibi, Dubai (2017); Manouchehri Merchant House, Kashan (2016); A Dish Fit for the Gods, Lawrie Shabibi, Dubai (2015); Stage on Fire, Rose Issa Projects, London (2014); Stitched, Leighton House Museum London (2008); Stitched, Rose Issa Projects, London (2008).

Ahrarnia has participated in several group shows including, Punk Orientalism, Mackenzie Art Gallery, Regina (2019); Artissima, Dialogue sector, with Lawrie Shabibi, Torino, Italy (2018); Recentring Modernism, Insights Sector, Art Basel Hong Kong, with Lawrie Shabibi (2016); Serpentiform, Palazzo Braschi, Museo di Roma, Rome (2016); The Great Game, Iranian Pavilion, 56th Venice Biennale (2015); The Beginning of Thinking is Geometric, Maraya Art Centre, Sharjah (2013); Embroidermania, Hinterland Kunzt Art for Vienna Art Week, Vienna (2013); Bringing the War Home, Winchester School of Art (2013); Quotations from Daily Life, 6th Tashkent Biennale of Contemporary Art (2011).

His work is held in several collections including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA); Art Gallery of Western Australia, Perth; the British Museum, London; Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, Bradford; Harewood House, Leeds; The Mohammed Afkhami Collection, Dubai and the Huma Kabakci Collection, Istanbul, Turkey.

Ahrarnia lives and works between Shiraz and Sheffield.