Yasser Safi: Exploring Marginal Voices Through Bold Printmaking

Yasser Safi, born in Qamishli, Syrian Arab Republic in 1976, is a contemporary artist whose artistic practice delves into profound themes of daily life and social commentary—often delivered with a sharp wit and subversive spirit. His multifaceted approach to visual storytelling encompasses printmaking, drawing, and sculpture, reflecting an unwavering commitment to observation and critique that distinguishes his work from conventional aesthetics. Safi’s formative years were spent in Damascus University where he meticulously honed his artistic skills, shaping him into the artist he is today—a figure recognized globally for his courageous engagement with challenging subjects and his advocacy for voices often silenced. Throughout his career, Safi has consistently utilized parody and sarcasm as indispensable tools within his artistic language. These techniques transcend mere stylistic considerations; they represent deliberate strategies designed to confront uncomfortable truths and dismantle established narratives – a core element of his artistic ethos that resonates deeply with the broader trajectory of contemporary art toward questioning power structures and championing perspectives marginalized by societal norms. His oeuvre speaks volumes about confronting injustice head-on, mirroring the spirit of artists who strive to illuminate hidden realities and provoke critical reflection. Safi’s artistic explorations have garnered considerable acclaim across the Middle East, Europe, and North America through impactful solo exhibitions and collaborative projects. Notably, his piece “Untitled 3,” a striking monochrome woodcut print, embodies Expressionist sensibilities while simultaneously conveying an undeniable connection to human experience—a testament to Safi's remarkable ability to distill complex ideas into visually arresting compositions. The textured surface of the print serves as an invitation for contemplation on themes of vulnerability and resilience, prompting viewers to consider perspectives often ignored or dismissed by mainstream discourse. Similarly, “Untitled 2” and “Untitled” continue to explore similar conceptual territories. Influenced by artists who prioritize social justice and embrace unconventional mediums—individuals who challenge conventions and push boundaries in their artistic endeavors—Safi’s artistic vision aligns seamlessly with a venerable tradition of confronting societal injustices through art. His unwavering dedication to capturing the essence of ordinary moments—experiences frequently overlooked or undervalued—elevates his work beyond mere representation; it aspires to foster dialogue, inspire empathy, and encourage viewers to reconsider accepted viewpoints. As he continues to exhibit internationally, Yasser Safi solidifies his position as an artist who bravely confronts difficult subjects and champions voices that demand recognition – a vital contributor to the ongoing conversation about art’s transformative potential. ### Additional Information:

• Education: 1999 Postgraduate Diploma in Printmaking from the College of Fine Arts in Damascus; 1997 BA of Fine Arts, Printmaking Department, Damascus University, Syria
• Teaching Experience: Workshops / Printmaking at bbk/Bethanin, Berlin (2023); Workshops / Etching at Kunstschuleberlin (2022); Lecturer in a cultural exchange project between the Academy of Visual Arts Leipzig, Germany, and Tripoli University in Lebanon (2010)
• Solo Exhibitions: Europia Gallery, Paris, France (2018); Mark Hachem Gallery, Beirut, Lebanon (2015); Kozah Gallery, Damascus, Syria (2010); Portrait Gallery Cairo, Egypt (2007); The Majilis Gallery, Dubai, UAE (2007); Sharjah Art Museum, UAE (2007); Zara Gallery, Amman, Jordan (2005); Notus Gallery, Brussels, Belgium (2002; 1999 French Cultural, Damascus, Syria
• Group Exhibitions: Collaborative project with DBd9 Arts and Culture Initiative, Museum Lichtenberg, Berlin (2023); Dialogue between drawing and animation, collaborative work by Yaser Safi & Wael Toubaji, In partnership with Helene Nathan Library, Berlin (2023); The Hanging Gardens / Art Festival, Atelier Gardens, Berlin (2022); Out There/ is an artist’s book in which visual and audio contributions by 25 artists, Berlin (2021); Nine artist, Printmaking Exhibition, Karim Gallery, Amman, Jordan (2021); hey Universum/ The show features posters designed by 20 cross-cultural artist displayed throughout the city’s urban spaces, Berlin (2019); “Zeitgenössische Malerei aus Berlin”, Galerie Tempelhof Museum. Berlin (2017); Mosaic, Gut Altenkamp Museum, Papenburg, Germany (2017); After the Butcher Gallery, Berlin, Germany (2017); Art Basel with Mark Hachem Gallery, Switzerland (2016); SMAC Gallery, Berlin, Germany (2016); Art_Lab Gallery, Berlin, Germany (2014); Kunststoff Syrien, Forum Factory, Berlin, Germany (2012); Art fair Beirut, Mark hachem Gallery, Libanon (2009); Ayyam Gallery Dubai inauguration-UAE; Ayyam Gallery -Art& Design art fair- New York
• Awards & Residencies: Residency program for Artists in Exile. B.L.O. Ateliers, Berlin (2017); Art Residency at Schafhof - Europäisches Künstlerhaus Oberbayern, Freising, Germany (2016); First Prize for Printmaking at the Syrian Youth, Damascus, Syria (2001)

Public Collections: British Museum, UK.; Museum of Islamic Art in Berlin, Germany.; The National Museum in Amman, Jordan.; The National Museum in Damascus, Syria.; Atassi Foundation, Dubai, UAE.