Marah Chaaban is a multidisciplinary artist whose work delves into the psychological and emotional landscapes of war, mental illness, indoctrination, and inherited belief systems. Drawing from history, mysticism, and nature, she explores the shared instincts between humans and animals as a way to examine behavior, survival, and identity.
Her art spans ink illustration, digital media, animation, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media—each chosen intentionally to best convey the raw emotion and layered symbolism of the subject at hand. Influenced by Japanese manga, horror films, and comics, her visual language often combines the fantastical with the unsettling, creating space for discomfort, reflection, and transformation.
Marah’s work does not aim to provide answers, but to invite introspection. Through confronting darker realities and emotional tensions, she encourages a deeper understanding of the self and the world we inhabit. Her practice is rooted in the belief that facing what we fear or ignore can lead to clarity, resilience, and more authentic forms of healing.
Education
2021-2022: MA in Fine Art, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
2012-2016: BA in Fine Art (Painting and Drawing), Tishreen University, Latakia, Syria
Exhibitions
- Shifting Sands, Saan1, Manchester, UK (Nov 2024)
- The Creative Alliance Indie Film Fete (As part of the BFI’s London Short Film Festival, Odeon Luxe West End, Leicester Square, London, UK
- Being Here Re-Imagined, LCB Depot, Leicester, UK (2022)
- Being Here Re-Imagined, DMU, Leicester, UK (2022)
- Abbey Road Café, Lattakia, Syria (2013 – 2020)
- Artist Alley artist at Middle East Film & Comic Con 2019, Dubai, UAE (2019)
- Zulfa Public Exhibition, Lattakia, Syria (2015)
- Tishreen University exhibitions (2014)
- Arab Cultural Centre, Lattakia, Syria (2013)
Awards
- Officially selected for Indie Film Fete 2022 – Best short film | People’s choice
Marah Chaaban 