Untitled (from the Tall Al Zaatar Series) 1976

Ismail Shammout made this painting, Untitled, from the Tall Al Zaatar Series, likely in the 70’s. The colour palette is muted, dominated by blues, reds, and browns that blend and bleed together, creating a sense of instability. The paint handling is really loose and fluid, with washes of colour that suggest rather than define form, as if Shammout embraced the unpredictable nature of his materials. See how the figures are outlined with dark strokes that are not quite closed, suggesting movement, or perhaps an opening. The surface is built up with layers of thin, transparent washes, which create a luminous depth. There’s a real push-pull, as the artist seems to balance control and chance. Shammout’s style reminds me of the raw expressionism of artists like Kathe Kollwitz, both of whom share a commitment to social themes. Ultimately, this piece resonates with the idea that art can be a form of witnessing, offering a space for reflection on human experience.