Abbas Kiarostami, an Iranian filmmaker, painter, and poet, rose to prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Despite majoring in painting and graphic design at the University of Tehran College of Fine Arts, he pursued a career in film, where he would become a leading figure in the Iranian New Wave movement. Known for his unique cinematic style, he often incorporated child protagonists, rural settings, and stationary cameras. His films tackled themes of change, continuity, and the human condition, blending elements of fiction and documentary.

Parallel to his filmmaking career, Kiarostami maintained his passion for painting, illustration, and graphic design. He initially worked in advertising, designing posters and creating commercials, before moving on to illustrating children's books. Kiarostami's artistic sensibilities were evident in his films, where he utilized Persian poetry and emphasized the visual aspects of storytelling. His films often contained visually striking landscapes and carefully composed shots, reminiscent of his background in painting. In addition to his filmography, Kiarostami published a collection of over 200 poems and exhibited his photography.

While Kiarostami's reputation as a filmmaker remains his most enduring legacy, his contributions to other forms of art, particularly painting, illustrate a multifaceted creative spirit that defied easy categorization. His films and paintings alike reflect his deep engagement with the human experience, often through subtle, contemplative narratives that underscore the complexity and ambiguity of life.