The Artist is Present, Limited Edition Wallpaper, Produced by Studiocurart, 2019.

The Artist is Present, Limited Edition Wallpaper, Produced by Studiocurart, 2019.The Artist is present in a limited edition wallpaper composed of a pattern of 10 original drawings.

Sirine Fattouh revised the history of conceptual art from a feminist perspective. She drew herself in the same position as famous performance artists whom she admires, such as Orlan. These drawings although naifs are homages to artists who played a key role in contemporary art such as: Valie Export, Orlan, Klein, Duchamp, Oppenheim, Shadi Ghadirian, Chris Burden, Niki De Saint-Phalle and in other moments they are attacks as the one on Koons. 

The reference to Orlan’s performance, Le Baiser de l’artiste, which took place during one of the famous editions of the French art fair FIAC, particularly inspired Fattouh. Orlan would offer a kiss to any visitor who gave her 5 francs, this radical gesture resulted in Orlan losing her job as a teacher. The title makes another reference to the famous performer Marina Abramovic and her performance at MoMa The artist is present.

Although looking at others, Fattouh chose to put herself in the center of this work, as a reflection on her roles as an artist, a feminist, and LGBQT activist and a researcher. These roles evolved in the constantly shifting realities of the Middle East.

These editions of wallpapers are an act of « détournement » of a decorative object such as the wallpaper turning it into an artwork. The wallpaper acts as a storyteller, a space for experimental exploration and self-expression.

Karina El Helou, independent Curator Studiocur/art.