Shirin Fathi is an Iranian-Canadian artist and curator based in London. Her practice focuses on cultural changes in relation to gender identity. Through role-play and the use of cosmetics, masks and prosthetics, Fathi uses her own body as a subject to stage ambiguous and often marginalized identities. Building upon her recent project focusing on gender representation in the history of cultural exchange between Europe and Iran in 19th century Qajar paintings, her practice most recently examines Persian mythic archetypes, gender and technological accessibility in knitwear.
Her work has been included in numerous exhibitions and festivals internationally including her recent presentation at India International Center in New Delhi. She is currently showing work at Gallery 44 as part of the chosen artists of the annual Proof 27 exhibition in Toronto.