Ardeshir Shirkhani

I am a Film and Audiovisual Master’s student, born in Tehran and currently based in the Netherlands. Coming from Iran to the Netherlands has taught me adaptability and the ability to learn quickly, shaping both my academic and creative pursuits. Cinema has always been my passion, driving me to practice directing, editing, scriptwriting, and cinematography, while critically analyzing, through essays and an academic lens, films in diverse historical and material contexts.

I have a particular interest in diasporic, exilic, and post-colonial cinema, themes I explored in my own short film, which examines exilic aesthetics and narratives. The film’s selection for the official competition at Zlatý Voči, reinforced my belief in the power of film festivals to amplify diverse voices and provide a platform for marginalized perspectives. I see festivals as vital spaces of diversity, fostering meaningful dialogue and offering a sense of connection for underrepresented communities. Attending community-based and international festivals has deepened my engagement with diverse audiences, inspiring my dedication to fostering dialogue and contributing to the cinematic community.