Marwan (Syrian, b. 1934)

In Syrian born Marwan's works, one is transported into a multi-dimensional realm that captures so deeply the inner psyche. His paintings incorporate several layers diffusing light into his works with superimposed pigments that recall the magic of his native city, offering an intimate and mystical experience. The present two works come from the celebrated Marionette series, one of the two subjects that Marwan has continued to explore within his oeuvre. Presenting a doll that has no soul and no depth, Marwan chooses his subject matter as a way to avoid any sort of intimacy in his model. This doll occupies the majority of the composition, sitting or lying motionless with total surrender and tiredness. While she has her makeup and bright clothes on, her gaze is empty. It is a reflection of his own emotions, particularly of his long lived exile in Germany that has left him pining for his beloved Syria.