Tarek El-Shammaa

Tarek Sebastian Al-Shammaa draws inspiration from a post-orientalist perspective in his vibrant and impactful work. Born to migrant Iraqi and French parents and raised in the heart of London, his multicultural background shapes the underlying influence in his creations.

Through his paintings, Tarek explores historical viewpoints, emphasising the ambiguity of knowledge and challenging the clarity of historical truths. His deceptive portrayal of figures in his art prompts viewers to question these truths.

Al-Shammaa's large-scale works tell individual narratives reflecting on decades of colonial dominance affecting his family and nations at large. Viewers are invited to explore intimate scenes of snake charmers, migrants, shepherds, and shadows from the past and present. The abstracted protagonist figures underscore the multiplicity of identity and challenge Arabic stereotypes perpetuated by the West.