Culture

How Uman Was Inspired by Islamic Art and Rural New York Life

Published

1 month ago

March 28, 2024

In upstate New York, “I’m surrounded by nature and animals,” Uman says, “so that comes out in my paintings: chicken feet, dogs, mouths and teeth.” In “When Rolfie Smiles My World Is Sunshine,” an abstract portrait of her dog, certain shapes recall a snout, a hill and twigs.

Uman’s “When Rolfie Smiles My World Is Sunshine” (2023). © Uman, courtesy of the artist, Hauser & Wirth and Nicola Vassell Gallery. Photo: Sarah Muehlbauer