ARTIST STATEMENT
This artwork depicts a portrait of a women covering a black (bruised) eye. Her face is calm as she tries to go on with her life while hiding her true feelings and pretending that all is well. In the Middle East, we are told to “not rock the boat”. So this piece is a statement against gender-based violence and an encouragement for all victims of gender-based violence to rebel and speak up and turn over the boat not just rock it. On the right side, the word “Rebel!” Is written vertically in Arabic Calligraphy in silver leaf.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Originally from Egypt, Salma Taman is a self taught fine artist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her preferred medium is acrylic on canvas and she regularly incorporates metal leaf, tar gel, glass beads, feathers and other elements, in her work. Her large scale portrait paintings often incorporate quotes and poetic verses in Arabic Calligraphy. Salma Taman’s work was shown at The Kuaba Gallery, The Lost Dog Gallery, Saks Fifth Avenue Gallery, Gallery Forty-Two as well as Rev’s Art Walk in 2022. Her work can be found in private collections in the U.S., Egypt, France , Cyprus, and Dubai. You can enjoy some of her work in public spaces like The Gallery Pastry Bar and MOTW Coffee in Indianapolis, Indiana.
© Salma Taman