Historical Figure
Sara Shamma
Modern
Sara Shamma is a Syrian artist based between Damascus and London, whose painterly works are executed in a figurative mode. She represents Syria at the 61st Venice Biennale in 2026, thereby becoming the first Syrian artist to present a solo exhibition at the event. Storytelling and narrative are of paramount importance in her work. Shamma has long been preoccupied with the psychology of individual suffering and has produced work on war, modern slavery and human trafficking.
Connection to Damascus
Born and works between Damascus and London; first Syrian artist to present a solo exhibition at the Venice Biennale.
Known for
BP Portrait Award 2004 at the National Portrait Gallery London; representing Syria at Venice Biennale 2026.
Lifespan
1975-11-26
Biography
Sara Shamma is a Syrian artist based between Damascus and London, whose painterly works are executed in a figurative mode. She represents Syria at the 61st Venice Biennale in 2026, thereby becoming the first Syrian artist to present a solo exhibition at the event. Storytelling and narrative are of paramount importance in her work. Shamma has long been preoccupied with the psychology of individual suffering and has produced work on war, modern slavery and human trafficking.