Growing up in what she refers to as a typical Palestinian family, Rana Samara’s practice has been heavily influenced by this and her observations of the roles women play. Through her work, Samara explores societal norms, sexuality, gender roles and other factors associated with modern Palestinian life, focusing on the less obvious ones that underpin daily life.
She takes a particular focus on women, usually those who reside in more rural communities or overcrowded refugee camps, and those who continue to be blighted by both conservative traditions and the exigencies of life under occupation. She demystifies social taboos and translates them into large, bold, colourful canvases that are both social statements and artistic constructs.
