Faten Nastas Mitwasi: A Pioneer in Palestinian Art and Culture
Faten Nastas Mitwasi, born in 1975 in Bethlehem, is a prominent figure in the Palestinian art scene, known for her contributions as an artist, curator, and educator. Inspired by her father, Fawzy Nastas, a renowned sculptor, Faten's artistic journey began at a young age. In 2011, she obtained her Master of Fine Arts from the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem, solidifying her commitment to the arts.
Faten's dedication to nurturing artistic talent and promoting cultural awareness is evident through her pivotal role as the art coordinator at Dar Annadwa Cultural Center, where she curated exhibitions and organized courses. Her passion for education led her to play a significant role in the development of Dar al-Kalima University of Arts and Culture, where she lead the Graphic Design & Applied Arts programs. She is currently working on obtaining her PHD in Toronto. Notably, she is among the four women honored for founding the Women of Vision scholarship, underscoring her commitment to empowering aspiring female artists.
As a scholar of Palestinian art, Faten has authored three books and curated numerous exhibitions and art projects, including the Palestinian Collection for the "Imago Mundi" project, commissioned by the Luciano Benetton Foundation. Her artistic prowess extends to installation art, where she seamlessly integrates handmade and ready-made objects into her thought-provoking pieces. Faten's diverse body of work encompasses elements such as calligraphy, embroidery, ceramics, and multimedia, reflecting her deep-seated concerns about the social, emotional, and psychological facets of life within the politically charged environment of Palestine. Her art delves into themes of home, identity, place, and fragmentation, offering poignant insights into the human experience.
Faten Nastas Mitwasi's artistic impact transcends borders, with her works showcased in exhibitions both locally and internationally, including the United States, Sweden, Scotland, Germany, and Japan. Her talent as a visual artist is complemented by her role as an inspiring teacher, evident in her leadership of the "Creating Palestinian Symbols With Crochet" cultural creativity series, a testament to her commitment to preserving and celebrating Palestinian heritage.
Faten's unwavering dedication to the arts and her influential contributions to Palestinian culture have solidified her as a pioneering figure, enriching the artistic landscape and inspiring future generations of artists and cultural enthusiasts.
