Abstract purple mask

Fatma Lootah’s (b.1954) mask is a kaleidoscope of shades of purple and pink with highlights in white, black, dark green and orange. They may represent the different facets and complexities of her life. Born in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, the artist and women’s rights activist moved away from the deserts and palm trees of the UAE over three decades ago to settle in Verona, Italy. Despite the geographical and cultural distance from her homeland, she recognizes that the themes of her colourful works celebrate her Emirati and Arab identity.

Fatma Lootah, United Arab Emirates/Italy

2020

Designed in Verona, Italy

Made in Italy

Printed cotton

Royal Ontario Museum
2021.69.3, Gift of Kinda Foundation of Contemporary Arab Art