The winning piece, Monica Belucci, is a striking oil on canvas inspired by John Singer Sargent’s classic Madame X.
Sharjah
In an exciting victory for Emirati art, Faeze Mohammed (who lives in Sharjah) has won this year’s prestigious Peru Bienal, a prominent platform in Latin America for artists worldwide. Among thousands of submissions, her stunning painting Monica Belucci captured the hearts of the judges, earning her the top prize in the category of visual arts and design.
The winning piece, Monica Belucci, is a striking oil on canvas inspired by John Singer Sargent’s classic Madame X. In her portrayal, Mohammed reinvents the timeless allure of Sargent’s work, focusing on the iconic Italian actress Monica Belucci. This reimagining is both homage and innovation, evoking elegance and mystery through her careful play of light and shadow.
Describing her vision, Faeze explained:
For the Peru Biennial, I am presenting an oil on canvas portrait titled Monica Belucci, inspired by John Singer Sargent’s iconic Madame X. This work reimagines the classic elegance and intrigue of Sargent’s original, capturing the essence of Monica Belucci with a similar play of light and shadow. The portrait emphasizes the contrast between the subject’s luminous skin and a deep, richly textured black dress, mirroring the study in opposition that defines Madame X. Through this painting, I aim to explore the timeless allure and enigmatic presence that both women embody.
The Monica Belucci painting has been praised for its mastery of contrast and balance, highlighting Faeze’s unique ability to blend traditional and contemporary portraiture. With this victory, she further cements her reputation as a leading artist in the UAE and beyond, celebrated for works that delve into themes of elegance, beauty, and mystique.
About the Peru Biennial
The Peru Biennial, established to uplift the artistic and cultural industries of Latin America, is a one-of-a-kind event in the Americas, located in Peru, home to the ancient Inca civilization. Held annually, the event draws artists, designers, and creators from across the globe, who come together for exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, and awards. For Peru, the biennial is a moment to shine as a vibrant hub for creativity, fostering growth and exchange in the arts sector across the hemisphere.
The Biennial’s Goals and Mission
The Peru Biennial’s objectives focus on enriching the arts by supporting and promoting the creative industries. Their goals include:
– Elevating the artistic, creative, and cultural industries of Latin America.
– Enhancing appreciation for the role of creativity in society.
– Creating platforms for the exchange of ideas among institutions, companies, and professionals.
– Encouraging a culture of excellence in artistic practice through responsibility, dedication, and skill.
This year’s biennial brought together a rich array of artistic talent, each contributing to the dynamic dialogue that the event fosters. Mohammed’s achievement shines not only as a personal triumph but also as a testament to the power of cross-cultural inspiration and the universal language of art. Her work will now be showcased among other leading contemporary pieces, embodying the spirit of the Peru Biennial.
With Monica Belucci, Faeze Mohammed has undoubtedly set a high standard for contemporary portraiture, inspiring artists worldwide to explore the delicate balance between homage and innovation.
Read: Faeze Mohammed – A Harmonious Fusionist of Heritage and Contemporary Art
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Courtesy: Sands and City (Online Magazine – Dubai)
Source: Peru Bienal
Photo: Faeze Mohammed Instagram
