Using video as a sort of body extension, Shahryar Nashat moves through shapes, with repeated references to classical sculpture, art history, and popular culture. In his works, under a veil of humor and sensuality, he stages a multi-sensory encounter between images and objects. The artist focuses on what is not usually observed or fancied, as he represents the body in details, beyond the traditionally established ideals.

His work has been included in the Venice Biennale (2005, 2011) and the 8th Berlin Biennale (2014). He has exhibited in venues such as Palais de Tokyo, Paris (2014); 356 Mission Road, Los Angeles (2015); Kunsthaus Zurich (2009); Haus der Kunst, Munich (2015); Kunstverein Nürnberg (2010); ACCA, Melbourne (2012); Art Unlimited, Basel (2009) and Frieze Projects, London (2010). In 2016 he had exhibitions in Portikus, Frankfurt, Schinkel Pavilion, Berlin and Walker Art Center, Minneapolis.