Authors
The authors are a distinguished group of scholars and practitioners who provide original essays shaping the discourse on modern and contemporary art in the SWANA region. Their essays present distinct ways of understanding the region’s artistic practices and cultural histories. Grounded in academic rigour and deep engagement with the region’s artistic histories and practices, their work ensures that artists are represented with depth, nuance, and intellectual integrity.
Showing 3 of 32 authors
Saleem Al-Bahloly
Discover the work of art historian Saleem Al-Bahloly whose research explores the intersection of modern art and religious traditions.
Laura Barlow
Discover the work of visionary curator Laura Barlow across museums, non-profit organisations, and independent art spaces.
Tina Barouti
Find out more about Tina Barouti, whose work includes histories of colonialism, decolonisation movements, fine arts pedagogy and more.
Hamed Abdalla
Learn about Egyptian artist Hamed Abdalla in this Mathaf Encyclopedia entry.
Jellal Ben Abdallah
Explore self-taught Tunisian artist Jellal Ben Abdallah's life and career trajectory in this Mathaf Encyclopedia entry.
Tamam al-Akhal
Delve into the life and work of Tamam al-Akhal, a foundational figure in modern Palestinian art, in this Mathaf Encyclopedia entry.
Zahoor ul Akhlaq
Delve into this Mathaf Encyclopedia entry about Zahoor ul Akhlaq, one of the foremost contemporary artists of Pakistan.
Ahmed Cherkaoui: Decode his Memory
Explore this essay by researcher, museum director and juror Brahim Alaoui about the life, work and genius of Moroccan painter Ahmed Cherkaoui.
Artists in Context
Discover the works of five pioneering artists who redefined modern art in the Arab world by intertwining personal experience, cultural heritage, and bold artistic innovation.
Drawing Chronicles: Wael Shawky’s Cabaret Crusades and the Fall of Teleological History
Discover how artist Wael Shawky reimagines history through his Cabaret Crusades trilogy using marionettes, elaborate scenography and classical Arabic speech.