- 05
- Aug.
- 2024
“Unmasked”: A Celebration of Contemporary Lebanese Art in the Heart of Venice
modified on 02 Sep. 2024 à 10:28 Read : 3 minute(s) A A A
As the Venice Biennale is in full swing, a captivating exhibition is illuminating the artistic landscape of the City of Canals. “Unmasked,” showcased at the prestigious Galleria ItinerArte, offers a fascinating dive into contemporary Lebanese art through the works of three renowned artists: Zeina Nader, Claude Saba, and Lina Husseini. Under the enlightened direction of curator Tony Karam, this exhibition reveals the richness and depth of Lebanese artistic creation.
Initiated by Dr. Tony Karam, the “Unmasked” exhibition runs until August 8, 2024, at the Galleria ItinerArte, located in the Dorsoduro district of Venice. From the moment visitors step into the gallery, they are struck by the evocative power of Zeina Nader’s canvases. With a minimalist yet infinitely expressive approach, the artist explores human emotions through abstract compositions where every stroke, every color seems imbued with meaning. For this Venetian exhibition, Zeina Nader drew her inspiration from the enchanting atmosphere of the city, translating its vibrant hues and iconic landscapes into a visual symphony that invites contemplation.
In another room, Claude Saba’s works transport spectators into a dreamlike world bathed in the softness of moonlight. His paintings, filled with poetry, capture suspended moments where lovers peacefully sail on Venetian canals. The silvery light that bathes these scenes lends an almost mystical dimension to these moments of shared tenderness. The artist’s delicate touch and mastery of shadows and reflections create an ambiance of ethereal beauty.
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Lina Husseini’s sculptures add another dimension to this exploration of Lebanese art. Inspired by the very essence of Venice, her works play with forms and materials to evoke the sinuous canals, the majesty of monuments, and the festive joy of the carnival. Presented in pairs, some of these sculptures represent masks with a thousand colors, celebrating the diversity and art of disguise so dear to Venetian tradition. Others, with undulating or crumpled lines, seem to have been shaped by the very breath of the lagoon city.
Beyond the intrinsic beauty of the exhibited works, “Unmasked” is a true hymn to the resilience and creativity of Lebanese artists. As the curator of the exhibition, Dr. Tony Karam points out, "This exhibition aims to forge links between cultures, reveal the richness of Lebanese heritage, and touch the soul of visitors." And it is clear that this goal is achieved with brilliance. Each canvas, each sculpture seems to hold a part of the Lebanese identity, inviting a silent yet profound dialogue with the audience.
The presence of “Unmasked” in Venice holds particular significance. It attests to the vitality and influence of Lebanese art on the international stage, offering these talented artists an exceptional showcase. It is also a bridge between two cultures, a message of universality conveyed through the language of art.
As the Venice Biennale continues, “Unmasked” stands out as a must-see for art lovers and curious explorers alike. Until August 8, the Galleria ItinerArte will showcase these treasures from Lebanon, offering a stationary yet immensely enriching journey into the heart of the Lebanese soul. This is an exhibition not to be missed—an opportunity to be carried away by the magic of art and the beauty of shared emotions.
Bélinda Ibrahim
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