Tehran and Tel Aviv between 1930 and 1940: That makes for two cities at the dawn of modernism and two interactions with the many diverse impulses of the “International Style”. With Irmel Kamp and Andreas Rost, the publication brings together two photographers of different generations. They present their views of modernist buildings in today’s Iran and Israel, taking a very individual approach.

The publication draws attention to similarities and differences; it aims to overcome clichés and preconceived opinions and to encourage us to take a fresh look at modernism. Through the photographic showcasing of more than 50 buildings, Irmel Kamp and Andreas Rost explore historical and cultural contexts as well as current issues.

The encounter between Tehran and Tel Aviv also addresses the question of how we are presently dealing with the heritage of modernism. Can the Tel Aviv approach – involving marketing and further construction – serve as a model for saving modernist architecture in Tehran – and elsewhere? In some respects, the condition of Iranian buildings today is reminiscent of the situation in Tel Aviv in the late 1980s: only a small circle of experts appreciate their special character and value. Many buildings are vacant and await renovation. Slowly, public awareness of these structures is increasing.