Tate Modern presented the first exhibition in the UK of Lebanese artist Saloua Raouda Choucair. Born in Beirut in 1916, Choucair is a pioneer of abstract art in the Middle East and is now becoming recognized as an important figure in the history of global modernism. Her work combines an experimental approach to materials with an elegant use of symmetry, line and curve. Comprising over 100 works, the Tate show brought together paintings, sculptures and other objects made by the artist over five decades, reflecting her interests in science, mathematics and Islamic art. The show, which opened on 17 April 2013, was supposed to end on 20 October. Because of the critical and public response that it received, however, the Tate decided to extend it until 17 November. Follow SRC on Facebook at