My name is Rita Rahimi, formerly known as Ramin Rahimi, and 'PASSION' represents a collection of digital portrait art that I created during a period of self-denial regarding my transgender identity.

Born in the Islamic Republic of Iran, I experienced firsthand the oppressive nature of a gender apartheid regime that rigidly enforces Islamic gender roles. For twelve years, I attended an all-boys school where my head was shaved, and I was indoctrinated into conforming to the expectations of a heterosexual male.

As I grappled with my deep-rooted empathy for the female gender, I sought solace in expressing my thoughts and emotions on the digital canvas.

My artwork is characterized by idealized female figures, a focus on precision and realistic proportions, and a restrained color palette—elements consistently present throughout my period of denial.

It is only now, after many years, that I can acknowledge these images as self-portraits. They served as visual manifestations of my suppressed psyche, urging me to confront and accept my true gender identity. In doing so, they played a crucial role in helping me overcome extreme denial and debilitating phobias.

'PASSION' is a testament to the power of art as a conduit for subconscious inspiration and self-realization.