Artist Hossein Valamanesh, 72, dies suddenly

Acclaimed artist Hossein Valamanesh, who created part of the North Tce streetscape, has died suddenly.

Adelaide based Iranian-Australian artist Hossein Valamenesh, pictured here in 2018, has died suddenly.

Internationally esteemed Iranian-Australian artist Hossein Valamanesh died suddenly in Adelaide on the weekend, after suffering a massive heart attack.

Valamanesh, 72, had been working as recently as Friday, putting the final touches to an installation with his wife and fellow artist Angela for the Adelaide Biennial exhibition, which opens at the Art Gallery of SA in March.

Artist Hossein Valamanesh at Greenaway Gallery in Kent Town with one of his works for the SALA Festival in 2010.

One the Valamaneshes’ most distinctive public works, the prehistoric-looking water sculpture 14 Pieces, stands in front of the SA Museum on North Terrace.

Hossein’s death was announced on the Gagprojects site by that gallery’s owner and the Valamaneshes’ longtime representative Paul Greenaway.

“Inspired by the writings of the Persian poet Rumi and his passion for a pared-back, haiku-like approach to material and form, Hossein is remembered for his artworks that are both powerful and poetic,” the statement read.

A major solo exhibition of Valamanesh’s work titled Puisque tout passe (This will also pass) is currently showing at the Institut des Cultures d’Islam in Paris, with an accompanying publication due to be launched in Australia next month.

Born on March 2, 1949, in Tehran, Valamanesh emigrated in 1973 and graduated from the South Australian School of Art in 1977.

After Rain: Contemporary artist Hossein Valamanesh unveils his sculptural installation at the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery in 2014. Photo: Zach Hogg / NewsMail

During the past 49 years he established himself as one of Australia’s leading contemporary artists, often creating work in collaboration with his Port Pirie-born wife Angela and their son Nassiem.

Art Gallery of SA director Rhana Devenport said Valamanesh was an “internationally important” artist and that its collection was home to many of his works.

“Hossein’s passing leaves us all deeply shocked and saddened ... We have lost a true poet,” Devenport said.

“His turning tree called After Rain is one of the most popular works at AGSA.

“Despite Hossein’s tragic passing, his legacy will continue to inspire, astonish and resonate with our visitors.”

14 Pieces water sculpture by Angela and Hossein Valamanesh, outside the SA Museum on North Terrace in Adelaide.