Biography & CV - Randa MADDAH
Randa Maddah, born in Majdal Shams village in 1983, occupied Syrian Golan, represents a compelling voice within contemporary art—one deeply rooted in the complexities of her homeland’s history and imbued with an unwavering commitment to exploring themes of memory, displacement, and identity. Growing up under occupation profoundly shaped her artistic vision, informing her practice across painting, sculpture, video, and installation.
Early Artistic Formation & Education: Maddah's formative years were marked by exposure to the realities of life within the Golan Heights—a region perpetually divided by geopolitical tensions between Israel and Syria. Recognizing the importance of formal training, she pursued studies at Adham Ismail Center in Damascus (2003), honing her skills in painting and sculpture before graduating from Damascus University’s Faculty of Fine Arts Sculpture Department in 2005. This initial grounding established a foundation for her subsequent artistic explorations.
Expanding Horizons: Seeking further intellectual enrichment, Maddah enrolled at the Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem (2007), delving into etching techniques—a medium that allows for nuanced representations of texture and detail. Her work garnered critical acclaim from John Berger, who lauded its “power” and ability to “make the killing field between the aghast spectators and the agonizing victims sacred,” highlighting Maddah’s capacity to confront difficult subjects with sensitivity and artistic integrity.
Master's Degree & Parisian Influence: Maddah continued her artistic journey by earning a Master’s degree in Fine Arts from École Nationale des Beaux-Arts de Paris (2020), immersing herself in the vibrant cultural landscape of the French capital. This experience broadened her artistic perspective and solidified her dedication to pushing creative boundaries.
Recent Artistic Output & Recurring Themes: Maddah's current work centers on exploring concepts of sanctuary, liberation, and reincarnation—inspired by a belief in cyclical renewal and the transformative potential of nature. Her canvases express themes of refuge and resilience, reflecting her personal engagement with profound questions about existence and human experience. Notably, she’s a founding member of Fateh Al Mudarris Center for Arts and Culture in Majdal Shams and l'association Portes ouvertes sur l'art in Paris—organizations that champion intercultural dialogue and artistic expression. Her multidisciplinary output incorporates elements of natural imagery, floating objects, and circular motifs—symbols that underscore the enduring significance of origins and the cyclical rhythms of life. Recent exhibitions include “La Pièce manquante,” “Mediterraneo sensibile,” “SEUILS” and “Heartbreak”, demonstrating her continued engagement with pressing social and political concerns.
Awards & Recognition: Maddah’s artistic achievements have been acknowledged through prestigious awards, including the Prize of “les amis des Beaux-Arts de Paris,” The TAKIFUJI Art Award, The Young Artist of the Year Award from A.M. Qattan Foundation, and an Honorable Prize from École Nationale des Beaux-Arts de Paris. These accolades underscore her dedication to artistic excellence and her commitment to fostering creative innovation.
