Over the decades, Aghdashloo has mentored numerous young artists, many of whom went on to establish notable careers of their own. He taught art and aesthetics at several universities and cultural institutions in Tehran, emphasizing the importance of research, discipline, and cross-cultural understanding in the development of an artist. His mentorship was particularly impactful during the post-revolutionary period, when access to global art trends was limited. He helped foster an appreciation for European classical art, while encouraging students to explore rich artistic heritage.
Aghdashloo was once seen as a bridge between traditionalists and modernists in art—a role that made him highly influential in shaping post-revolutionary artistic discourse. In recent years, Aghdashloo’s reputation has been affected by serious allegation, which emerged as part of broader movements around gender and accountability. These accusations have led to a reevaluation of his public role, though his artistic legacy remains a topic of debate. While some institutions have distanced themselves from him, others argue that his influence on the art scene cannot be ignored.
