SAWSAN AL BAHAR

In light of the recent success of Syrian-Palestinian artist Sawsan Al Bahar, Firetti Contemporary will showcase a collection of her new works along with pieces from previous years, encompassing both drawing and installation.

Born in Damascus and raised in the UAE, Sawsan is a multifaceted talent, wearing the hats of an artist, architect, and researcher. Following the completion of her Bachelor of Architecture at the American University of Sharjah in 2013, Sawsan established her artistic practice in Dubai, focusing on the concept of home as a myth. Her work explores the subtle ways in which history shapes personal narratives, often centering on her own life and family history. Sawsan's creative portfolio encompasses drawings, prints, installations, digital scans, and text, all of which she employs to establish a connection with her past, her homeland, her culture, her language, her family, and, ultimately, her identity.

In September 2022, Sawsan Al Bahar held her first solo exhibition, "Talaliya," at Firetti Contemporary. The following month, in October 2022, she achieved recognition by winning the Massimiliano Galliani Prize for Drawing under 35 at Art Verona. This award was granted in collaboration with Firetti Contemporary and was showcased in the curated booth section, featuring an exhibition titled "The Continuous Line That Binds Us Together," curated by Sonya Stepyan. This accolade subsequently led to a bi-personal exhibition at the esteemed Casa Cavezzi in Montecchio Emilia, Italy, held in May 2023.

Presently, Sawsan is the featured artist in her solo exhibition, "33 Songs, 99 Words," at Maraya Art Center in Sharjah, UAE, which will run until January 11, 2024. Additionally, she is currently exhibiting at Firetti Contemporary as part of their showcase, "Breaking Boundaries II," in partnership with Dubai Culture for the Dubai Calligraphy Biennale.

Looking ahead, Sawsan's upcoming exhibitions include Art Abu Dhabi, scheduled for November this year, and a forthcoming group exhibition at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, featuring artists shortlisted for the "Richard Mille Art Prize."

October 21, 2023