من Berytus إلى Beirut

This abstract painting delves deep into Beirut’s memory and its Eastern-Western identity. The word "Beirut" is elegantly inscribed in modern Arabic calligraphy, rendered in striking black and white, symbolizing the city's timeless memory and dual identity. Each letter is crafted to mirror the intricate rooftop landscapes of Beirut's urban sprawl, weaving together narratives of its diverse neighborhoods. The canvas is encased in a modern wooden frame adorned with delicate Arabic calligraphy, spelling out "Beirut" in a mesmerizing pattern that echoes the city's rich cultural heritage.

Through this piece, the evolution of Beirut’s identity is explored and the essence of its ongoing metamorphosis is captured. By juxtaposing traditional calligraphy with modern framing and design elements, a dialogue between tradition and modernity is created. The use of Arabic calligraphy represents the past of the city, the black and white colors reflect the timeless nature of the city’s memory, and the modern wooden frame symbolizes the present and ongoing transformation. With that, the artwork invites viewers to reflect on the city's transformation, emphasizing how urban spaces retain memories as they adapt to contemporary influences. It also acknowledges how successive, multiform wars - military, political, economic, and psychological - have continuously reshaped Beirut’s urban fabric and deeply inscribed themselves into its collective and individual identities. It serves as an artistic response to the complex dynamics of urban renewal, urging contemplation on how cities like Beirut maintain their cultural heritage amidst ongoing change. 

Hand-drawn painting, beech-wood decorated frame & augmented-reality animated video.

Production year: 2024.