Shokouh Riazi was born in 1921 in Tehran. Her father, Major General Mirza Ali Khan Riazi, played a crucial role in both military and cultural spheres. Growing up in a blend of Iranian and French cultures, Shokouh began her early education in Paris. After returning to Iran, she initially studied medicine but soon switched to the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Tehran, graduating in 1946.

To further her artistic development, she continued her studies at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where she graduated with a gold medal and top honors in 1954. Upon her return to Iran, Shokouh Riazi became a prominent educator at Iranian universities, transforming art education and mentoring many notable students, some of whom later became pioneers of modern Iranian painting.

Passionate about modern art, Riazi was influenced by artists like Amedeo Modigliani. She developed a unique painting style characterized by bold lines and diverse techniques, emphasizing the importance of drawing as a foundation for painting.

Throughout her career, Shokouh Riazi created a limited number of works, focusing primarily on teaching and nurturing the next generation of artists. Her artistic legacy includes several drawings, paintings, and sculptures. Shokouh Riazi passed away at the age of 41, on July 9, 1962, due to cancer, leaving a lasting impact on the modern art scene in Iran.