At just 24 years old, Palestinian artist Salma Dib is making waves in the art world with her striking pieces on display at the Etihad Modern Art Gallery in Abu Dhabi. Specifically, her work is featured in the exhibition “Summer and Women.” In this showcase, Dib presents her ongoing series titled “Generational Walls.”
Dib’s innovative creations involve layering various building materials, such as cement, gravel, and sand, on wooden panels adorned with obscure Arabic inscriptions.
The result is a visually powerful and thought-provoking display that captivates viewers.
The artist draws inspiration from the graffiti found on walls in Syria, Jordan, and Palestine, which often carries a political edge. Dib explains, “People can anonymously say anything on them.” She connects personally with these walls, stating, “I think I found a part of myself in those walls because I (have always been) reserved in what I had to say… A lot of it is about healing because I get to say what I want.”
Dib’s journey began in a Syrian refugee camp in Khan al-Shih, located 27 kilometers from Damascus. From there, she moved to a family farm, where she fondly remembers the artistic environment created by her aunt and uncle. This early exposure to art and the joy of painting with her cousins nurtured her passion for art, supported by her family’s encouragement.
When Salma Dib was five, her family moved to Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter, and art continued to play a crucial role in her life. After the loss of her mother at age 15, art became a significant form of solace for her.
Salma Dib’s artistic path took her to the US in 2018. There, she studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Moreover, she experimented with various mediums, guided by a mentor who encouraged her to delve deeper into her personal narrative through her art.
“Summer and Women” remains open at the Etihad Modern Art Gallery throughout the summer. Additionally, it showcases Dib’s profound and evolving artistic expression.