Mala Iqbal's New Paintings Capture Urban Life and Screen-Mediated Reality
Mala Iqbal's recent creations, such as "Through the Curtains" (2026) and "Times Square" (2026), portray the intensity of urban life, showcasing figures illuminated by artificial hues of orange and yellow. In "Through the Curtains," a scene of disintegration is partially hidden by a tulle curtain, symbolizing a life altered by screens that broadcast chaos and violence. These artworks delve into how reality is shaped by images and symbols, drawing from social realism and the fluidity of Matisse's style. Many pieces are set in subway environments, emphasizing superficial connections. "Subway Riders" (2026) features Iqbal's partner, artist Angela Dufresne, who looks directly at the viewer, demonstrating the impact of relationships on identity. Additionally, a detail from "Transparent Friend" (2025) is included.
Key facts
- Mala Iqbal's paintings depict crowded urban scenes with figures jostling every canvas surface
- Many works feature an orange and yellow glow suggesting artificial electric light
- "Through the Curtains" (2026) shows collapse obscured by a tulle curtain resembling a faded negative
- The artist's "Times Square" (2026) uses a chalky palette associated with Ben Shahn
- Social realism influences the work, though the mood is closer to Matisse's ease
- Many paintings are set in subways, exploring false intimacies and urban masks
- Artist Angela Dufresne, Iqbal's partner, appears in "Subway Riders" (2026)
- A detail of "Transparent Friend" (2025) is reproduced alongside the paintings
Entities
Artists
- Mala Iqbal
- Angela Dufresne
- Ben Shahn
- Henri Matisse
Institutions
- Hyperallergic
Locations
- Times Square
- New York City
- United States