Even as world headlines from the Middle East focus on upheaval and violence, the region's culture continues to thrive. Here's our look at some groups and individuals making their mark on arts and culture in the region, in no particular order.
Raeda Saadeh, Palestine/West Bank
Jerusalem-based artist Raeda Saadeh has been likened to renowned conceptual artist Cindy Sherman for her installations, performances and photography. Saadeh says her work examines ideas of gender, identity and displacement, as in this work, titled "Hospital." The Palestinian artist, who had her first solo exhibit in London earlier this year, often puts herself as the subject of her pieces — be it in an absurd position or clad as Vermeer's “The Milkmaid.”
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By Nafeesa Syeed. Did we leave someone out? Let us know at @AlMonitor and look out for more lists.