The Role of Somaesthetics in Art and Design: Exploring the Cultural Expression of Iranian Immigrants in the U.S. with a Focus on Gender and the Body

Abstract
This study investigates the cultural expressions of Iranian immigrant artists in the United States through the interdisciplinary framework of somaesthetics, a field emphasizing the body as a central site for artistic expression, cultural resistance, and identity negotiation. By examining the sensory, emotional, and experiential dimensions of art, the research highlights how these artists use embodied practices to navigate the complexities of migration and adapt to new sociocultural landscapes. The study integrates visual analysis, semi-structured interviews, and secondary literature to explore three primary themes: the role of somaesthetics in understanding embodied artistic practices, the impact of sociopolitical constraints in Iran on creative expression, and the negotiation of dual cultural identities in diasporic contexts. Through detailed case studies of immigrant artists, the findings reveal how Iranian immigrant art critiques restrictive gender norms, challenges sociopolitical censorship, and constructs hybrid identities. The research also highlights the transformative role of digital media in extending the reach and reception of diasporic art, enabling global dialogue and engagement with audiences across borders. This paper contributes to academic discourse on the intersection of somaesthetics, art, and migration, offering nuanced insights into the embodied dynamics of cultural adaptation, resilience, and resistance within the Iranian diaspora. It emphasizes the evolving nature of diasporic creativity in fostering dialogue between heritage and adaptation.