Ala Ebtekar: 1388

For Ebtekars first solo exhibition at The Third Line, the artist explores iconic figures from contemporary Iran. In this new series, Ebtekar paints directly onto color photographs of Iranian women in iconic poses demonstrating strength and vision.

The scarves (roosari) that cover their head and hair are transformed into a soft armor, although delicately detailed and placed; they reference a strong spirit and resilience. Ebtekar portrays women as warriors, suggestive of both ancient Persian epics and the most recent call for freedom by Irans youth - a movement frequently led quite visibly by Iranian women, who have re-entered the world stage with a particular power and grace.

Ala Ebtekar
1388