This is Not a Self-Portrait: Exploring the Concept of Self in the Contemporary Artistic Practices of Middle Eastern Women Artists

Abstract

This article examines self-portraiture by several Middle Eastern women artists (MEWA) through a historical and feminist lens, emphasising their unique approach that subverts traditional self-portrait iconography.  It also explores how changes in women's standing in the region from the early 20th century to recent decades are reflected in Middle Eastern women artists' approach to self-portraiture. The shift moves away from the conventional individualistic and objective approach to self-portraiture, instead embracing a collective and unified approach in which the artists deliberately refrain from titling their works as self-portraits. The article suggests that collective self-representation is used to reveal critical views of Middle Eastern women artists on issues such as representation, veil/hijab, wars, complexities of the region and gender inequality. The introspective lens of artists enriches the discourse on these issues.