Dr. Ramzi Dalloul enjoyed a serious attitude towards collecting. At a time when he began focussing more heavily on Arab artists, I had the pleasure of enjoying his special personality. Our relationship as collector and artist was smoothed by traits he possessed that were reminiscent of ones that I recognised as typical Palestinian and ones that especially reminded me of the stubbornness my father possessed. No matter how much we haggled over pricing or particular paintings; our involvement in the process was always significantly fuelled by enjoyment. I think that he held the same attitude as I did and was willing to move beyond the professional relationship into one of friendship.
Collectors have the responsibility of guarding cultural heritage and passing it on to future holders. Beyond that, it is especially commendable when they allow access and keep it in the public eye.
They shine best in this respect when they organise the collection in ways that allow researchers and interested parties to view and study their collection. Providing services for researchers and public viewing is not a simple transaction. It demands resources as much as it demands commitment.
The Dalloul Foundation under the current guidance of Dr. Basel Dalloul is doing just that.