Mayada Shibir
Art has always been my way of exploring the world—pushing boundaries, questioning the familiar, and discovering new forms of expression. I see creativity as an open space with infinite possibilities, where each piece invites viewers to step beyond the expected. My process is driven by curiosity and a deep fascination with materials. I work with raw and recycled elements, fabrics, minerals, and glass, often using unconventional techniques. A single texture or color can spark a layered, evolving creation. I avoid rigid rules of composition or medium, allowing intuition to guide the work organically. Painting is a way to rediscover the ordinary, transform the familiar, and sometimes rebel against convention. My recent series, Exploration of New Dimensions, offers a multisensory experience—a dialogue between texture, form, and perception. It examines the interplay of material value, personal interpretation, and the emotional depth of colour and composition. In 2021, I took over the Shibir Nilotic Gallery for Modern African Art—founded by my father, Professor Osman Shibir—and relocated it to Berlin. Honouring his legacy, I continue to expand the gallery’s mission: showcasing academic and contemporary perspectives on the art and history of indigenous Nilotic tribes and supporting underrepresented artists. More than an exhibition space, the gallery is a cultural landmark—a hub for innovation, research, and dialogue. My goal is to create opportunities for emerging talent, bridge cultural narratives, and amplify artistic voices. Through this work, I celebrate Africa’s heritage, creativity, and enduring influence.
