Reflections: contemporary art of the Middle East and North Africa

Více o knize

This collection showcases an extraordinary array of contemporary art from the Middle East and North Africa, sourced from the British Museum for the first time. The vibrant works reflect the experiences of artists both in their homelands and in diaspora, engaging with their histories, cultures, and the significant changes their regions have undergone. Since the 1980s, the British Museum has amassed one of the most extensive collections of Middle Eastern and North African art in the public domain, primarily focusing on works on paper. These pieces provide valuable insights into civil societies, regional politics, and cultural traditions, bridging connections to Islamic art and literature. The introduction by curator Venetia Porter delves into the collection's history and the featured works. Charles Tripp’s essay offers a critical framework for understanding the political and contextual landscape in which these artists operate. The artworks are organized into seven thematic chapters, each prefaced by a brief introduction, exploring themes such as faith, abstraction, and the female gaze. This anthology not only highlights the artistic contributions of the region but also emphasizes the broader cultural narratives at play.