Place: Aleppo
Born: 1922
Death: 1999
Biography:
Fateh Al-Moudarres was a prominent Syrian painter and one of the leaders of the modern art movement in Syria. Born in Aleppo, Syria in 1922, he studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome, where he was influenced by Surrealism. After completing his studies, he returned to Syria, where he developed his skills under the auspices of long-time friend, mentor, and tutor Wahbi Al-Hariri.
Moudarres originally taught himself realist painting techniques before becoming interested in Surrealism. He has been considered a master Syrian surrealist painter. After moving back to Syria, he was a lecturer and dean of the faculty of fine arts at Damascus University until 1993, and then became a professor.
Moudarres' work is characterized by his unique style, which incorporated both Surrealist and realist elements. He abandoned the religious iconography and Syrian art references of his early work for non-objectivity in the 1960s. After 1967, however, his work took on political themes. His paintings are known for their warm tones and play between figuration and abstraction, transparency and solidity.
Moudarres had numerous solo exhibitions throughout his career, including at the Galleria Cichi in Rome, the Gallery of Modern Art in Damascus, and the Centre culturel français in Damascus. His work is part of several important private collections, including the Al-Hariri Family collection and the Collection of Rudolf and Maria Fechter. The Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Doha also has a significant collection of his work.
Since his death, Moudarres' work has been in high demand. In 2013, one of his paintings sold for $315,750, well over the estimated price. His work continues to be celebrated for its unique style and artistic vision. The Barjeel Art Foundation and the Atassi Foundation also have significant collections of his work. Moudarres' legacy as a master Syrian surrealist painter continues to be recognized, and his work remains an important part of the modern art movement in Syria. His contributions to the world of art are a testament to his innovative spirit and artistic talent.