Cube Breaker: The country and people of Iran have been viewed with mystery by many outsiders, especially those in the Western world. It’s oppressive religious government restricts many aspects of its citizens lives, and seeks to shelter them from the influences of the outside world. But in Iranian photographer Hossein Fatemi’s An Iranian Journey we see that life in the Persian state is much more complicated and complex than it may seem.

Hossein takes us along as we see the world that few outside are ever allowed to see, and that many were afraid to let be seen. Men and women listen to rock music, drink alcohol, dance, and even wear revealing clothing. Some refused to appear on camera, for fear of reprisal. But for those who did, they provide us a glimpse into a society which is both astonishingly beautiful and full of contradiction. To see more of Hossein’s work, visit his website.