Afshin Pirhashemi (born 1974 in Urmia, Iran) was a contemporary Iranian painter known for his striking photorealistic and expressionist works. He studied at the Rome Art Afshin Pirhashemi (1974–2024) was a celebrated Iranian painter known for his photorealistic and expressionist works that explored themes of identity, gender, and societal dynamics. Born in Urmia, Iran, he later moved to Tehran, where he developed his artistic career. His paintings, often monochromatic with occasional splashes of red, reflected the complexities of contemporary Iranian life, particularly the role of women in society.

Pirhashemi began his artistic training under Babak Etminani before enrolling at the Islamic Azad University to study painting. However, he did not complete his formal education, choosing instead to pursue independent artistic development. He later attended a three-month training course at the Academy of Arts in Rome, supported by a scholarship from the Italian government. His early works gained recognition in Iran, and his first solo exhibition was held in 1990 at Bamdad Gallery in Tehran.

Over the years, Pirhashemi’s artistic focus evolved, and he became known for his dramatic compositions that blended photorealism with expressionist elements. His paintings often depicted strong female figures, sometimes in surreal or cinematic settings, drawing inspiration from film and literature. His work was deeply influenced by themes of power, struggle, and psychological depth, with some pieces featuring characters from iconic films such as The Godfather.