Magda Malkoun is an artist whose work speaks volumes about identity, resilience, and transformation. With her unique collage and mixed-media techniques, she creates art that tells powerful stories—especially about women. Her journey from a young girl sketching in school to an internationally recognized artist featured in Art Dubai, Times Square, and Rome is nothing short of inspiring.
A Childhood Marked by Art
Magda’s connection with art began at a very young age. She recalls struggling to memorize a song in school but finding an unconventional way to learn it—by drawing its story. This moment, when her teacher displayed her artwork in the school hall, was a defining experience. It reinforced her natural inclination toward artistic expression.
Despite coming from an environment where painting wasn’t considered a serious career, she nurtured her talent independently. Art became not just a hobby but a necessity, a way to focus, communicate, and navigate life’s complexities.
The Power of Collage and Mixed Media
Magda’s artistic journey evolved into a passion for collage and mixed media. She became fascinated with how fragments could come together to create something entirely new, much like life itself. Her signature technique involves using cut-up fragments of her own photographs—often images of ruins, historic locations, or places rich with personal significance.
Each piece in her collages carries a story, a memory, or an emotion. Through this technique, Magda creates powerful narratives that mirror women’s experiences—how they collect, endure, and transform through life’s challenges. Her work isn’t just visual art; it’s a reflection of resilience, strength, and the many layers that shape a person’s identity.
Breaking Barriers in the Art World
Like many artists, Magda faced her share of challenges. The art world is filled with opinions and criticism, and she had to learn to distinguish between constructive feedback and negativity. One of her early breakthroughs came when a mixed-media portrait of hers gained significant attention on social media, leading to a feature in Elle Deco magazine.
This recognition solidified her artistic identity and encouraged her to push forward. However, balancing her career with personal life, especially as a mother, added another layer of complexity. To create a sustainable art practice, she set up her studio at home—allowing her to maintain both her creative momentum and family responsibilities.
Achievements and Global Recognition
Magda’s work has gained international acclaim, marking several major milestones in her career:
- Art Dubai Exhibitions (2022 & 2023): Showcasing her work at one of the most prestigious art fairs in the region.
- Times Square & Los Angeles Billboards: Selected from 80 artists worldwide to have her work featured on global platforms.
- Rome Projection: Her art was displayed in Rome, further cementing her place in the global art scene.
- Award Nominations: Named Best Emerging Artist in 2021 and received the Best Art Exhibition in Dubai award in 2024.
These accolades affirm the value of her work and the powerful stories she tells through her art.
The Desert Series: A Tribute to Women’s Strength
Magda’s latest project, The Desert Series, is deeply symbolic. She draws inspiration from the desert as a metaphor for women’s resilience—how they endure, transform, and thrive despite hardships.
The shifting dunes represent the fluid yet unbreakable nature of the female body. The desert’s ability to sustain life in extreme conditions mirrors how women navigate life’s toughest challenges. Just like her collage technique, The Desert Series explores fragmentation and reconstruction, emphasizing the strength and adaptability of women.
This series builds on the success of her previous solo exhibition, The Matriarch, and aligns with her long-term mission—highlighting the transformative power of women through her art.
Staying True to Her Artistic Vision
One of the biggest lessons Magda has learned is to stay true to her inner voice. The art world often pushes trends and market demands, but she believes authenticity is key. By focusing on creating work that resonates with her personal experiences and emotions, she ensures that her art remains meaningful and impactful.
She hopes to be remembered not just for her unique technique but for telling stories that delve into the unseen aspects of women’s lives. While many artists focus on external representations of women, Magda aims to highlight their inner strength, resilience, and untold narratives.
A Message to Aspiring Artists
Looking back, Magda wishes she could tell her younger self to trust her instincts and embrace vulnerability as a strength. She believes that overcoming self-doubt and external judgment is crucial for any artist who wants to create work with lasting impact.
Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and storytelling through art. By breaking barriers and challenging conventional narratives, Magda Malkoun is redefining what it means to be an artist—and a woman—on the global stage. Do follow her on Instagram.
Also read: UAE’s Education System Gets a Makeover to Prepare Students for Future Jobs
