Fettouma Ousliha-Bouamari, a multifaceted artist with a wide range of creative pursuits, emerged from the vibrant city of Algiers, Algeria, where her formative years were deeply influenced by the tumultuous backdrop of the war of national liberation. Born to a docker father and a hardworking mother, Fettouma's early life was marked by the struggles and hardships that came with living through this pivotal period in Algerian history.
As the daughter of a docker father and a worker mother, Fettouma's upbringing was characterized by a strong sense of resilience and determination, which would serve as a foundation for her future endeavors. Despite the challenges she faced, Fettouma's passion for the arts remained unwavering, a testament to her unshakeable commitment to her creative pursuits.
Growing up during the war of national liberation, Fettouma's life was shaped by the sounds of gunfire, the smell of smoke, and the sense of uncertainty that pervaded the air. Yet, amidst the chaos and destruction, Fettouma's artistic talents began to take shape, a beacon of hope and creativity in the midst of turmoil.
The war of national liberation, a defining period in Algerian history, had a profound impact on Fettouma's life, leaving an indelible mark on her worldview and artistic expression. As she navigated the complexities of growing up during this tumultuous time, Fettouma's artistic passions only intensified, driving her to pursue a career that would allow her to share her unique perspective with the world.
Notable individual Fettouma embarked on her professional journey as a typist, primarily driven by the necessity to provide for her family, yet her true aspiration was to delve into the world of theater. Subsequently, she received encouragement from influential figures such as Mustapha Kateb, Kaki, and Abdelkader Sefiri, which ultimately led to her stage debut in 1963 with an adaptation of Gozzi's play, "L'Oiseau Vert".
As her career progressed, Fettouma went on to star in various productions, including the notable plays "Two Rooms Kitchen", "The Caucasian Chalk Circle", and "The Man with the Rubber Sandals", all of which were performed in dialect Arabic.
Fettouma's remarkable adaptability as an actress was consistently demonstrated throughout her career, as she effortlessly transitioned between complex dramatic roles and lighthearted comedic performances. Her impressive repertoire included standout appearances in a diverse array of productions, such as "The Blood of the Righteous", a gripping play that delved into the themes of armed revolution and its profound impact on society. Additionally, Fettouma brought her exceptional talent to the stage in "Revizor", a witty and incisive satirical comedy that cleverly lampooned the inefficiencies and absurdities of bureaucracy, drawing inspiration from the masterful works of Nikolai Gogol.
Fettouma's multifaceted career extends beyond the confines of the stage, as she has also made a significant impact in the realm of film. A pivotal moment in her cinematic journey occurred in 1979 with the release of "Premier Pas", a film directed by her long-time partner, Mohamed Bouamari. This breakout role not only showcased her exceptional acting abilities but also garnered her the prestigious Interpretation prize at the esteemed Carthage festival in 1980.
Throughout her illustrious career, Fettouma has remained steadfast in her dedication to her craft, utilizing her platform to passionately promote Algerian culture and talent.
