Biography
Waheeda Malullah is a multidisciplinary artist whose two-decade practice examines the socialised norms of Bahrani society and wider Arabian Gulf context through a playful, performative lens. Characterised by minimalist imagery, a poetic sensibility and an often sequential narrative structure, her works question the role women play within contemporary Islamic culture, as well as the region’s shifting political and ideological landscape.
Malullah’s work has been presented in both solo and group exhibitions, including Little Voice, Al Riwaq Art Space, Bahrain (2014); 55th Venice Biennale (2013); MinD/Body, Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre (2013); Light from the Middle East: New Photography, Victoria and Albert Museum, London (2012); 25 Years of Arab Creativity, Institut du monde arabe, Paris (2012); Woman on the Verge, Empty Quarter Gallery, Dubai (2012); Somehow, somewhat in the middle of things, Liefhertje en de Grote Witte Reus, The Hague (2012); Cinéma du réel, Centre Pompidou, Paris (2012); Sharjah Biennial 9 (2009); Visual Games, Al Riwaq Art Space (2009); and 11th International Cairo Biennale (2008), among others.
Her works can be found in the collections of the Institut du monde arabe and British Museum, London.
She participated in residencies at the International Studio & Curatorial Program, New York (2013); Delfina Foundation, London (2008–2009); and Townhouse Gallery, Cairo (2005). She has received the Bronze Palm Award for Photography, Visual Arts Forum, Katara, Doha (2015); Al Dana Prize, 39th Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, Bahrain (2013); and Golden Pyramid Prize, 1st International Media Art Forum for Youth, Palace of Art, Cairo Opera House (2009).
SAF participation:
Sharjah Biennial 9 and 15 (2009, 2023)
