Maryam Kouhestani is a Vienna-based multimedia artist, curator, and activist, born in Zahedan, Iran. She holds an MA in Arts Research from Tabriz University of Art and a BA in Crafts from Kashan University. Recent solo shows include Recycle Bin — Episode 5 at the Volkskundemuseum Wien and Irregular Pearls at Semmelweisklinik, Vienna 2024. Hoor Gallery in Tehran presented two decades of work in 2023. Her awards include First Place at Iran’s 10th Ceramic and Pottery Biennial. Kouhestani has taught sculpture and fine arts at universities in Iran and Afghanistan. She has curated multiple thematic exhibitions in Tehran, including Nimrouz, the first contemporary Afghan art exhibition in the city.