Interview with Massoud Shojai Tabatabai

Interview with Massoud Shojai Tabatabai

LATAMARTE: Mr. Shojai Tabatabai, to begin, could you tell us what led you into the world of cartoon and caricature?

Shojai Tabatabai: As a teenager, I became familiar with the satirical magazine “Tofiq.” Its sharp wit and social critique left a deep impression on me. Combined with my passion for drawing, this exposure slowly drew me into the world of cartooning. I realized that a simple image could provoke thought, raise awareness, and challenge injustice—all without a single word.

LATAMARTE: You’re known for your socially committed stance. What does “commitment” in art mean to you?

Shojai Tabatabai: Artistic commitment means standing beside the people when they suffer, using your art not just for beauty, but for truth. I’ve never believed in neutral art. Every line must mean something. To be committed is to not look away when there’s injustice. Art must speak where silence becomes complicity.

LATAMARTE: Your work on themes like Palestine, Gaza, and terrorism is widely known. Why are these topics so central to your art?

Shojai Tabatabai: Because they are not just political topics—they’re deeply human. The suffering of children in Gaza or victims of global injustice cannot be ignored. As an Iranian artist and a Muslim, I feel responsible not to stay silent in the face of cruelty. These works are not mere illustrations; they are visual protests.

LATAMARTE: You've organized numerous international exhibitions. How do you see your role in nurturing new talent?

Shojai Tabatabai: Through platforms like Iran Cartoon and international contests, I’ve seen unknown artists rise and find audiences. That’s one of my greatest joys. We need to ensure that cartoonists from places without visibility can share their voice globally. Art should be borderless.

LATAMARTE: Has there ever been a drawing that moved you emotionally as you created it?

Shojai Tabatabai: Absolutely. One of my most emotional works depicted children trapped under rubble in Gaza. I couldn’t stop crying while drawing. It felt like I was there. That moment changed how I viewed my role as an artist.

LATAMARTE: How has your understanding of satire changed over the years?

Shojai Tabatabai: I once saw satire as entertainment. Over the years, I realized that it’s a weapon—sharp, intelligent, and humane. Satire, when used wisely, can question authority more effectively than loud slogans.

LATAMARTE: Finally, what message would you leave for future generations of cartoonists?

Shojai Tabatabai: Let your art reflect your people—not just your ego. Let your lines echo the unheard. Because art, at its best, is the silent scream that cannot be ignored.