WO-MAN
The "WO-MAN" art project is a powerful conceptual photography series created in 2012. It explores themes of gender identity, cultural expectations, vulnerability, and inner strength—all through the lens of traditional Omani attire and symbolism.
Key Concepts of the Project:
- Subjects: Women photographed wearing traditional Omani men's clothing, such as the dishdasha and mussar (turban).
- Visual Contrast: Each woman is shown in two portraits:
- One with open eyes, symbolizing presence, power, and control.
- One with closed eyes, expressing reflection, inner self, or perhaps vulnerability.
- Message:
- The project questions how gender roles are perceived and performed.
- It challenges the viewer to see past clothing and cultural norms to the shared humanity and strength across genders.
- Almaskery emphasizes that every person holds both masculine and feminine energies—"strength is not owned by men, nor vulnerability by women."
Artistic Style:
- Black-and-white photography, shot on analog film, to evoke a timeless, documentary quality.
- Strong use of contrast and minimalism to focus attention on posture, clothing, and expression.
Cultural Impact:
- WO-MAN gained attention in regional and international art circles.
- In 2012 It was exhibited in The Dubai’s Empty Quarter Gallery as part of the “Identity”exhibition curated by Sebastian Ebbinghouse.
-In 2013 At Grand Palais, Art Paris Art fair, as part of the identity exhibit it was the star of fair what lasted from 28 March- 1 of April.
- It’s seen as a bold artistic move from the Gulf region, especially coming from Oman, where visual arts are still growing.