Amir Salehi (he/him) is an Iranian documentary photographer based in Calgary. With a background in photojournalism, his practice centres on capturing the political and social dimensions of everyday life. He began his professional career in 2013, documenting critical events in Iran with a focus on the intersection of politics, religion, and personal experience. Since immigrating to Canada, Amir has continued his work as a freelance photographer with the Globe and Mail, alongside his independent projects.
Amir’s approach is rooted in observation and an effort to present impartial narratives of events. For him, photography is not only a means of documentation but also a process of reflection. He uses the camera to slow down, to witness, and to preserve what might otherwise be lost.
Silent Tribute is a documentary photo series that captures small animal toys tied to fences across Calgary, quiet memorials placed in honour of children who died in residential schools. The project reflects on memory, absence, and how public spaces can carry the weight of collective grief in subtle and powerful ways.