zeinab al hashemi

Zeinab Al Hashemi (b. 1986, Dubai, United Arab Emirates) obtained a BA in arts and science from Zayed University with a specialism in multimedia design. Her practice spans various mediums, including site-specific public installations. She lives and works in Dubai.

Al Hashemi was encouraged to pursue art after a car accident in 2009 which confined her to the house. Looking at life from this new perspective, she began to experiment with artistic expression. A year later, she displayed her work in public and since then has not only exhibited at prominent institutions but has also collaborated with luxury brands such as Hermes and Tiffany & Co. to create pieces that bring art into the public sphere.

Al Hashemi’s work often invokes Emirati cultural traditions and explores the industrial development of the UAE through experimentation and media. She references the country’s recognisable topographical motifs to navigate its changing landscapes, as well as those of the wider world. Each project explores new materials and techniques, encouraging her own practice to develop in parallel with the increasing commercialisation and industrialisation of her homeland.

Zeinah Al Hasemi. Courtesy the artist and Desert X AlUla

WORKS IN THE COLLECTION

Zeinab Al Hashemi, "Concrete Poem", 2015

Inkjet print, 80 x 120 cm. Edition 2 of 5.

Courtesy the artist

Concrete Poem (2015) reflects Al Hashemi’s investigations into colour and symmetrical repetition. An elaborate geometric motif is repeated across the page and seemingly beyond, suggesting space, scale and infinity. The harmonious pattern is mechanically printed, rather than hand-painted, alluding to industry and contemporary techniques and breaking with notions of craft and tradition.

Zeinab Al Hashemi, "I) Be As You Are The Universe II) And Be Everything To Yourself", 2020

Neon tube lights, 80 × 180 cm

Courtesy the artist

I) Be As You Are The Universe II) And Be Everything To Yourself (2020) is a diptych of words in neon tube lights revealing the artist’s interest in poetry, as well as in the urban environment. Here, neon signs – commonly used to promote businesses and for advertising purposes – convey philosophical messages. Al Hashemi’s brand of poetry explores what it means for the relationship between oneself and one’s environment to change through works that directly invite the viewer to consider their own positionality and potential for self-realisation.

Naila Collection

championing female artists from the middle east & the global south

zeinab al hashemi

WORKS IN THE COLLECTION

Zeinab Al Hashemi, "Concrete Poem", 2015

Zeinab Al Hashemi, "I) Be As You Are The Universe II) And Be Everything To Yourself", 2020

“I’ve always liked the idea of getting outside the gallery. I like the kind of public art presence in my work. I think visually I’m able to create things that grab attention.”

Naila Collection

championing female artists from the middle east & the global south

zeinab al hashemi

WORKS IN THE COLLECTION

Zeinab Al Hashemi, "Concrete Poem", 2015

Zeinab Al Hashemi, "I) Be As You Are The Universe II) And Be Everything To Yourself", 2020

“I’ve always liked the idea of getting outside the gallery. I like the kind of public art presence in my work. I think visually I’m able to create things that grab attention.”

This website uses cookies.