Sotheby’s Modern & Contemporary Middle East Sale: A Closer Look
DUBAI: Dive into the world of Sotheby’s Modern & Contemporary Middle East sale, happening from Apr. 11-25.
Abdulhalim Radwi: A Pioneer in Saudi Art
Radwi, a trailblazer in merging popular culture with artistic techniques, paved the way for contemporary Saudi art. His work, influenced by his time in Rome, blends Western artistic discourses with local heritage. This piece reflects Radwi’s cultural identity, showcasing traditional Saudi architecture in a futuristic setting.
Taha Al-Sabban: Capturing the Essence of the Sea
Al-Sabban, mentored by Radwi, draws inspiration from the holy city of Mecca and the city of Jeddah. His abstract work reflects his deep connection to the sea, using a cool palette to convey the ocean’s nature.
Inji Efflatoun: Art as Activism
Efflatoun, a key figure in Egyptian culture, used her art to mirror social inequalities and advocate for the working class. Despite facing imprisonment for her political beliefs, she persisted in representing the struggles of everyday Egyptians.
Mohamed Hamidi: Morocco’s Finest Artist
Hamidi, a celebrated Moroccan painter, focuses on the body and African art symbols in his work. His use of bright colors and refined forms sets him apart as one of Morocco’s finest artists.
Faik Hassan: A Versatile Iraqi Artist
Hassan’s work spans various stylistic genres, depicting everyday life in Iraq with emotional fragility. His exploration of different styles showcases his technical skill and artistic versatility.
Tarek Al-Ghoussein: Documenting Kuwait’s Development
Al-Ghoussein’s “K Files” series captures significant places in Kuwait’s development through found material and performative photographs. His work tracks Kuwait’s growth and transformation over time.
Chant Avedissian: Nostalgia and Rebellion
Avedissian’s art, inspired by Cairo’s “Golden Age,” reflects the nostalgia of the era while addressing themes of liberation and rebellion. His depiction of Tahiya Carioca, a renowned belly dancer, connects him to the media imagery of the mid-20th century.