Fatema Al Mazronie
The beautiful and thought-provoking cover of Time Out Abu Dhabi this week was designed by Abu Dhabi artist Fatema Al Mazrouie. Her work has received critical acclaim both here and abroad and one of her pieces was recently auctioned at Sotheby’s. Her work is on display at Salwa Zeidan Gallery and Yas Viceroy as well as at this year’s Abu Dhabi Art at the Salwa Zaidan Gallery area.
Can you explain a little about the artwork you created for our cover, what inspired it and what it means to you?
Given the tremendous role women are now playing in every aspect of society, especially art, be it as the artists or the actual subject of the works, I was inspired to dedicate this work to them – particularly to the authentic Arabian woman. Through this work, I hope to commemorate the historical role of women in the Middle East by glorifying their strong identity using mixed media.
Tell us about your involvement with Abu Dhabi Art. What works do you have on display and why have you chosen those pieces?
Several of my artworks will be featured at the Salwa Zeidan Gallery booth at Abu Dhabi Art. I find that art fairs challenge artists to reinvent themselves and find major inspiration in them every year! This year, I decided to create a different style of paintings, inspired by old artists. This is the first time I address such a theme in my works and what I have done is highlight artworks that were famous in the past by incorporating them into my work as collages. I have also moved away from my comfort zone of canvases and have used a new type of wood with different textures and designs.
It seems to us that Abu Dhabi’s art community has really bloomed this year, with new artist groups emerging and more resources available. Would you agree?
Yes I absolutely agree! Having been born and raised here, I am happy to see how such initiatives are helping emerging artists grow and encouraging aspiring ones to pursue a career in art. This is evident in the large number of new artists exhibiting at the platform every year; it is so enriching to see such a vast array of talented people all gathered under one roof – this would not have been possible without Abu Dhabi Art!
How important is Abu Dhabi Art for the art scene’s development?
This is the single most important event taking place on the art scene in Abu Dhabi. In my view, this is creating a momentum that will prepare audiences for what is yet to come with projects such as the Louvre and the Guggenheim. It is no longer a local initiative but an international one that is bringing in some of the biggest names in the art world. Most importantly, it is nurturing the minds of people by exposing them to art – the UAE will soon become a major pool of talent for the region even the world.
Personal identity seems to be a strong theme in your work – do you think that being Emirati influences your art? If so, in what ways.
My roots and heritage play a huge role in my art. As an Emirati, Arab, Muslim woman, I am very proud of my origins and can portray my identity in a unique way. My paintings provide me with a window through which I am able to tackle any issue I want and I feel empowered to represent women by utilizing this opportunity to highlight key social issues that I care about.
Your work has attracted lots of attention abroad, so do you feel any pressure as an artistic representative of the UAE?
Yes I do feel a sense of responsibility to represent my country through my works and so I tend to give major thought and consideration to the style and subjects that I address. I believe that this attention is like a mirror of the UAE and I have the chance to show a positive aspect of my people. It is an honor I take very seriously.
Which of your artistic achievements so far are you most proud of?
Every exhibition is an achievement for me; I feel that every event helps me show my works in a different light and consider each exhibit to be a milestone for my progression. But if I were to single out one main development that I am most proud of, it would have to be auctioning and selling my work at Sotheby’s – this is a true confirmation that I am in the right direction and my works are valued.
Would you describe your work as feminist?
As mentioned previously, I feel compelled to represent women as I belong to this category and understand it the most. I believe in the strength and beauty of women and draw inspiration from them. I don’t like to show women as weak and fragile but as confident and strong pillars of our society, and am using the window that I have been blessed with to convey important messages and shed light on certain issues women face.
What direction do you plan to take next in your artwork?
As an artist, I am on a journey and would like to continue to evolve the mediums I use. One key thing for me is to not be dependent on canvas anymore and start experimenting with other mediums, which I have already started doing. One of the artworks I will be exhibiting at Abu Dhabi Art is part of this progression and I hope it receives positive feedback.
What have you got planned for the coming year?
New works, new experiences and from an exhibition standpoint, I will be part of a solo exhibition at the Salwa Zeidan Gallery and my works will be exhibited through the gallery at Art Dubai, Art India and Art Hong Kong.
