On November 21, 2024, the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art unveiled the exhibition 'Eye to Eye,' showcasing over 120 works from both modern world artists and Iranian painters.

This exhibition features significant pieces from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Francis Bacon, many of which have not been publicly displayed for over a decade.

Among the notable artworks are Warhol's portraits of Jacqueline Kennedy and Mick Jagger, which are part of a collection now estimated to be worth billions of dollars.

Historically, this museum was established by Iran's last shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and housed a vast collection of Western art that was largely hidden after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Following the revolution, much of the artwork was stored away to avoid offending Islamic values, with some pieces remaining untouched for decades.

Despite a crackdown on Western cultural influences, the exhibition represents a rare opportunity for Iranians to engage with global art without traveling abroad.

The ticket price for the exhibition is about 14 U.S. cents, allowing access to a government-sanctioned event that avoids political or religious themes.

Visitors, including young art enthusiasts like Aida Zarrin, expressed disbelief and excitement at seeing artworks that had been inaccessible for years, emphasizing their cultural significance.

The exhibition has attracted numerous women, many of whom are defying Iran's mandatory headscarf law, reflecting changing social dynamics in the country.

This shift is particularly notable as government crackdowns on hijab violations have eased since the election of reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian in July 2024.

Curator Jamal Arabzadeh highlighted the exhibition's significance in promoting art appreciation among Iranians with limited exposure to such works.

Despite facing severe Western sanctions, museum officials continue to advocate for the preservation of the collection, which remains largely protected.