Sacred Sin

6.5 x 3.0 x 0.5 cm

sterling silver and brass

Hand sawing, forging and hammer texturing, hand engraving, soldering, articulated hinge construction to create movement, patina application, and hand polishing.

Hiva Barikani is an Iranian artist living and working in Vancouver, British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations. With over a decade of experience as a jewellery artist, Hiva specializes in metalsmithing, alongside ceramics and sculpture. Her multidisciplinary practice has been enriched through extensive studies in fine arts and multiple advanced metalsmithing courses, enabling her to execute numerous jewellery collections and commissioned works. Deeply inspired by childhood wonder and the expressive simplicity found in naive art, Hiva's work playfully merges whimsical and mystical elements, capturing creatures and forms imagined through meditative contemplation.

Having grown up in Iran, Hiva's art subtly reflects personal experiences under an oppressive government context. Through her creative expression, themes of hope, spirituality, humour, and liberation are interwoven, forming a gentle yet powerful commentary on the constraints of the society she once inhabited. This nuanced approach enables her work to function as a form of silent resistance, embodying both personal liberation and universal aspirations toward freedom and simplicity. Hiva's artwork invites viewers into spaces of playful curiosity and heartfelt connection, reflecting a sincere commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance.

Hiva is the recipient of the 2024 Powell Family Award for Academic Achievement in Sculpture and was named to the Dean's Honour Roll at Langara College (2022–2023). In 2025, she served as Project Assistant for Being Human, a community art project at Langara College. Her work is held in the Langara College Art Collection and in various private collections.