Young Collectors Auction - exhibit-E

OussamaDiab1977Lot 003Signed, Dated54 X 66 cm. Acrylic on Wood 2008Estimate (US$ 2,500 - 4,000)Provenance - Directly from the artistBorn in 1977, Palestinian artist, Oussama Diab has quickly become a leading youngartist of the Middle Eastern art scene. Since graduating from the Faculty of Fines Artsin Damascus in 2002, he has been featured in solo and group exhibitions throughout theregion and has been honored for his work with several awards (including first prize) fromthe distinguished Young Artists exhibition. His debut show with Ayyam Gallery Damascusin 2009 marked the beginning of an exciting new partnership and was well received withinthe local art scene. With successful sales at the gallery’s Young Collectors auction, he hasgarnered great recognition among regional art lovers.Known for large colorful canvases that employ symbolist interpretations of currentevents, his recent series of paintings reflects a profound investigation into global politicalconcerns while hinting at the artist’s passion for international art. Inspired by a widespectrum of influences that span the length of art history, Diab’s work presents an newtake on graffiti-inspired Neo-Expressionism. Updating this painting style while injecting itwith his own references, he presents a fresh take at the world. His markings appear rapidand spontaneous with an overwhelming urgency, while his subjects exist in a nondescriptsetting.At once pop-infused and marked with a childlike innocence, his canvases are known fortheir serious subject matter, a juxtaposition that reflects the duality of his work.