Fateh Moudarres (Syrian, 1922-1999)

Undeniably one of the most intriguing and captivating artists in both Syrian Modern history and Levantine art movements, acclaimed artist Fateh Moudarres' distinctive signature continues to enchant anyone who encounters his rich and detailed works.

In the present work from 1966, Moudarres captures a full view of Maaloula, a village located to the North East of Damascus which is built into the mountainside. With a small population of around 2000, it is the only place where the Aramaic dialect is still spoken, which thus belies its historical and spiritual significance. Surrounded by remains of many monasteries, convents, churches, shrines and sanctuaries, many pilgrims of different religions make their way out to Maaloula to receive blessings and make offerings.

Since its establishment in the 1960s, mandatory field trips to Maaloula were incorporated into the curriculum of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Damascus University; a practice that continues until this day. As Moudarres, along with his close friend Louay Kayyali, taught at the university for several years, he would often return to Maaloula and capture it as a subject for many of his paintings using different media and styles.

Using a rich palette enriched with warm and vibrant colours, Moudarres replicates the earthy tones that offer an equally warm sense of belonging to the city he is capturing. His brushwork and use of fluid rough lines affords the painting a sense of movement which vibrates with the continuous pulse of the many visitors who frequent Maaloula's charming atmosphere.