Sama Alshaibi (Palestine/Iraq)

Born in Basra to an Iraqi father and Palestinian mother, Alshaibi is a naturalized US citizen and is currently Associate Professor of Photography/Video Art at the University of Arizona, Tucson, USA.

Sama Alshaibi’s videos, photography and performances is concerned with the dynamic and spaces of conflct. Her work frequently uses the body as a signifier of the tensions of the individual in relation to society and the problematics of identity, national occupation and exile.

Alshaibi’s work goes beyond a reflection of her Iraqi cultural heritage to a critical examination of the constraints that shape human behaviour and values.

Alshaibi also holds a BA in Photography from Columbia College and an MFA in Photography, Video and Media Arts from the University of Colorado. Her works have been collected by both public and private collections including: Nadour, Germany; The Barjeel Collection, Sharjah; The Rami Farook Collection, Dubai; and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Tunis, Tunisia.

Recent solo exhibitions have included: Lawrie Shabibi, Dubai (2011) and Selma Feriani Gallery, London (2010). Aishaibi’s most recent group shows have included the Venice Biennale (Maldives Pavilion) (2013); Venice Art Gallery, Los Angeles (2013); Madrid Palestine Film Festival (2013); University of Southampton (2013); Metro State University, Denver (2013); 12 Gates Gallery, Philadelphia (2013); ikono On Air Festival, online and broadcasted (2013); Art Asia Miami (2012); Edge of Arabia, London (2012); HilgerBROTKunsthalle, Vienna (2012); Institut Du Monde Arabe, Paris (2012); Maraya Art Centre, Sharja (2012); Headlands Centre for the Arts, California (2011); Traffic Gallery, Dubai (2010); DARB 1718, Cairo (2010); and Le Violon Bleu, Tunis (2010).