Egyptian-Lebanese artist Lara Baladi (born 1969) experiments with the photographic medium, investigating its history and its role in shaping perceptions of the Middle East—particularly Egypt, where she is based. This installation centers on Oum el Dounia (The Mother of the World), a large-scale tapestry based on a photographic collage. Employing both archival material and Baladi’s own images, the work was transformed into a tapestry in 2007 through the use of a digital loom. Oum el Dounia reflects Baladi’s interest in the proliferation of images of Egypt, and in how technology and interactivity affect the creation, dissemination, and preservation of visual narratives.

Related programming for Perspectives: Lara Baladi focuses on Vox Populi, Archiving a Revolution in the Digital Age, an archive of images, videos, and texts documenting the 2011 events in Tahrir Square. Planned events include talks with the artist and curator, and panel discussions held in conjunction with the Middle East Institute.