
Aria Ghoreshi
Mashhad, Iran
Advisor: Dan Pejril
Artist Bio
Aria Ghoreshi is a passionate 3D artist currently in his fourth year at the University of Connecticut’s Digital Media and Design program. His artistic journey began in childhood, where he spent hours sketching comics of his favorite characters. Born in Iran, Aria immigrated to the United States at 16, driven by a desire for greater career opportunities and creative expression. Inspired by a diverse array of media, including comic books, animation, and video games, Aria’s work reflects a rich tapestry of influences. He believes in the power of storytelling to entertain and provoke thought, aiming to create art that resonates deeply with viewers and encourages personal reflection. Aria’s goal is for his art to serve as a catalyst for change, not only within his audience but also within himself. Through his art, he aspires to inspire others, sparking conversations that lead to growth and transformation.

Artist Statement
Oxorin: Nightshade invites viewers into a captivating world of mystery and magic. The story follows Agent Leonard Darris, a skilled operative on a critical mission to extract information about a dangerous criminal organization from a covert spy embedded within their ranks. As Leonard journeys to the rendezvous point, he prepares for a straightforward operation—but what he encounters is anything but expected. Influenced by the dynamic storytelling of comic books, I have dreamed of creating my own narrative for over a decade. I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from the unique visual style of films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and the animated Netflix series, Arcane. Oxorin: Nightshade is a sad story of uncaring corruption. At its core, it’s a commentary on the societal willingness to sacrifice the youth by selling them a false ideal. Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed devoted young minds be exploited in the name of devotion and ideals that never cared about their well-being. This short marks the beginning of a complex conspiracy that unfolds within this richly developed universe, promising an engaging narrative that encourages viewers to question the nature of truth and deception.