Sooreh Hera

Sooreh Hera (born 1973) is an Iranian artist and photographer. "Sooreh Hera" is a pseudonym the artist chose for herself. Hera's work, often featuring depictions of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, have been considered expressions of free speech to some and offensive Islamophobia to others.

Biography Hera was born in Tehran. She says that "I'm hoping my work will arouse discussion." In November 2007, the Hague Gemeentemuseum removed some of the works created by Hera in order to avoid upsetting the Muslim community. Despite that, the museum still considered purchasing her complete series. Hera chose not to participate in the show if some of her work was censored. Artists in the Netherlands supported Hera, publishing an open letter to the Dutch Minister of Culture in the NRC Handelsblad. Hera's work was invited to be shown at the Municipal Museum of Gouda, though the show was postponed due to threats from the Muslim community of Gouda.