Hiba Alansari: Sculpting Resilience Amidst Trauma

Hiba Alansari’s artistic journey began in Tripoli, Libya, where she was born in 1983. From a young age, her fascination with art blossomed amidst the complexities of her upbringing—a formative experience that would profoundly shape her creative vision. Her formal education commenced at the Adham Ismail and Walid Azzat Institute for Fine Arts in Damascus, Syria, between 2005 and 2008, laying the groundwork for her mastery of painting techniques. This initial foray into artistic exploration culminated in a Bachelor’s degree awarded in 2012 from the Academy of Fine Arts in Damascus—a testament to her dedication and talent. Driven by an unwavering desire to refine her skills further, Alansari pursued postgraduate studies at Munich Academy of Fine Arts under Professor Gregor Schneider's guidance from 2014 onwards. Her focus on sculpture solidified her artistic identity, resulting in a Diploma earned in 2017—a culmination of intensive research and practical experimentation. Throughout her career, she has actively participated in numerous group exhibitions across Europe and the Middle East, notably including a prestigious appearance at the Venice Biennale in 2015, showcasing her commitment to engaging with contemporary artistic discourse. This Biennale presentation cemented her reputation as an artist tackling challenging subjects—primarily destruction, construction, and resistance against political violence—demonstrating a profound understanding of how art can confront societal issues. Her solo exhibitions have garnered critical acclaim, highlighting her distinctive approach to artistic expression. ‘The Math Book,’ presented at Ashkal Alwan in Beirut, Lebanon (2017), explored themes of mathematical precision juxtaposed with emotive imagery—a stylistic hallmark that distinguishes her work. The piece’s deliberate use of geometric forms alongside emotionally charged visuals speaks volumes about Alansari's intention to communicate complex ideas through visual language. Similarly, Shedhalle, Rote Fabrik in Zurich, Switzerland (2019), showcased her sculptural installations, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay between form and concept. These works exemplify her commitment to pushing boundaries within sculpture—challenging conventional notions of materiality and exploring how artistic forms can convey profound philosophical reflections. Recognizing her exceptional talent, Alansari has received scholarships from Ettijahat – Independent Culture, The Goethe Institute, The Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), and The Schafhof Artist-in-Residence Program—affirming her position as a rising star in the international art scene. Her artistic practice consistently confronts difficult subjects—primarily destruction, construction, and resistance against political violence. She utilizes fragmented materials to symbolize shattered narratives while simultaneously striving for structural integrity, reflecting a deliberate engagement with themes of trauma and resilience. Through her meticulous craftsmanship and conceptual depth, Hiba Alansari contributes significantly to the ongoing dialogue about artistic representation and its capacity to illuminate profound human experiences. Her work is characterized by an exploration of vulnerability and strength—a duality that resonates throughout her oeuvre. Influenced by artists like Gregor Schneider, who emphasizes the importance of intellectual rigor alongside aesthetic beauty, Alansari’s sculptures grapple with weighty issues—often addressing political violence and trauma—while simultaneously striving for visual harmony. Exhibitions at institutions such as The Venice Biennale, MAC/VAL, and Fondation Beyeler underscore her commitment to engaging with broader artistic conversations and presenting her vision to a global audience. Her pieces are housed in collections spanning from the Louvre Museum to MoMA New York, solidifying her legacy as an artist who dares to confront uncomfortable truths through powerful artistic mediums.