Sepand (Sepi) Mashiahof is a multifaceted Iranian-American creative force, embodying the complexities of a trans-femme identity through her work as a filmmaker, writer, and musician. Her artistic endeavors across various mediums serve as a testament to her unwavering dedication to exploring the profound feelings of monstrosity she has internalized as a queer individual.
Throughout her oeuvre, Sepi delves into the realm of horror, a genre that offers her a powerful platform to confront and process her vulnerabilities. Her commitment to contributing her unique perspectives, ideas, and politics to the horror canon is a testament to her unwavering passion and dedication.
In her imaginative worlds, Sepi's creations come alive, replete with fantastical and unsettling scenarios. Fairies are depicted as catalysts for queer bodies to realize their true forms, often through a process of decay and rot, much like overripe fruit. Meanwhile, aloof trans girls are portrayed as forces to be reckoned with, capable of forcing bigoted men to confront their own biases and prejudices.
Sepi's own life journey has been marked by a tumultuous adolescence, spent growing up in Los Angeles, followed by a period of self-discovery and artistic growth in Oakland, California. It was during this time that she co-founded the Scream Queens Radio program, a punk collective that showcased obscure gems from various genres, as well as produced interview zines, a music festival, and a magazine. Although the program eventually came to a close in 2018, its impact on the underground arts and music community remains a testament to Sepi's enduring influence.
In addition to her short horror films, LOVE YOU FOREVER and SMOOTH, Sepi has collaborated with a diverse range of artists on music video projects, including The Bedroom Witch, Divide and Dissolve, Lizard Bitch, Joyride!, and Beast Nest. These collaborations have not only further solidified her reputation as a versatile and innovative creative force but have also provided a platform for her to explore new themes and ideas.
