Alex Hoffman on Recursion and Desire in WHEN…

In the Liminal Space: Inside Yasmeen Abedifard’s "When to Pick a Pomegranate"

In a fogged, emerald-hued realm, Guli and Anar meet. A woman and a pomegranate stir from what seems an eternal slumber. They question: have they always been here, or just arrived? Is this heaven, a garden, or purgatory? Their eyes, both suspicious and familiar. The duo shares tales of humans and fruits, yet before deciphering their bond, they’re ensnared in an eternal cycle. Together, they dance between life and death, ever-changing and eternally linked.

A Tale of Eternal Connections

Yasmeen Abedifard’s "When to Pick a Pomegranate," released by Silver Sprocket in September 2024, chronicles Guli and Anar’s journey. Over seven chapters, the saga unfolds, each story symbolizing a phase in a pomegranate’s lifecycle. It’s a dance of intimacy, sensuality, and violence. Abedifard’s whimsical, looping style echoes masters like Disa Wallander and Michael DeForge.

One senses a deep yearning throughout "When to Pick a Pomegranate." In "Seed" and "Propagation," Anar’s cries for relief remain unanswered. "Ripe" sees Guli tear Anar apart, his juices staining her as his face reveals pleasure. "Flower" portrays Anar as an artist, Guli his muse. She inspires yet refuses him, depicted by his dual-headed, monstrous self-portrait. "Rotten" presents Anar’s desire for Guli devolving into self-loathing, leading to mutual destruction. Desire and violence spar throughout, in a constant tension.

Exploring Dualities and Yearnings

Guli and Anar’s connection symbolizes one’s relationship with selfhood. There’s a relentless battle between growth and destruction, pleasure and isolation. It speaks of the power of self-love intertwined with self-loathing. Their story is a clear friction between yielding to pleasure and shunning it. Abedifard masterfully weaves eroticism into these dualities, enhancing allure and sharpness.

Another layer—or perhaps, aril—is Abedifard’s Iranian heritage. Farsi text and Persian medieval art references pepper the work. Cultural history intertwines seamlessly with personal narratives, offering depth for engaged readers. Guli and Anar’s transformation in "Ferment" hints at traditional medicine and rituals. It emphasizes how bodies act for us and against us, seeking spiritual and allegorical alignment.

Visual Symphony of Metaphor and Color

Abedifard’s cartooning is fluid, gestural. It’s offset by a formalistic page composition and vivid colors. "Seed" presents multiplying, red panels, contrasting with "Propagation’s" green portrayal of an arm entwined with black roots. This produces an intense, dizzying effect. "When to Pick a Pomegranate" challenges its readers. Those daring to enter will find themselves captivated by its layered allegories and symbology.

Few comics dare to challenge deeply like this one. Abedifard’s work comes alive through rich narrative, compelling artistry, and bold color. It gracefully melds ancient themes with modern storytelling. "When to Pick a Pomegranate" triumphs, firmly placing Abedifard as a visionary artist. It’s an experience you enter with curiosity but leave only by its design.