A collaboration between artist Roger Moukarzel and the Teal Art Foundation is showcased in an exhibition titled ‘Vision of Time’ until the 16th of July at the Karagulla building.
A selection of eight paintings of Bedouin and Arab Women, created between 1915 and 1930 launched the exhibition. The challenge for Roger Moukarzel was to weave a dialogue between these historical works and his contemporary art.
To infuse these paintings with new life, he combined them with modern techniques. Artificial intelligence, becoming the central element of the exhibition. Collaborating with specialists, he chose to use Arabic, the native language of both the original artists and the subjects. He also included small poetic phrases acting as whispers from the past to the present.
Simultaneously, an artistic photographic variation emerged. Tattoos, present on three of the eight paintings, are isolated from the faces to create a vertical series of abstract works. One painting was reinterpreted using CMYK, introducing a new language of colours.
In the presence of these paintings, the artist’s imagination wandered. He envisioned these women living in today’s world, engaging in deep and sincere conversations as if they were speaking here and now. Immersed in their world, Moukarzel sought to understand their thoughts as they gazed back at him. This led to a connection between these century-old paintings and the artist.
Throughout the process of preparing the exhibition time emerged as a significant theme. Revitalising and modernising these paintings after so many years made them timeless, highlighting that art transcends human life with its enduring legacy. This collaboration breathed new life into historical art, blending past and present through technology, language, and imagination, ensuring that these artworks continue to inspire across generations.
About Roger Moukarzel
Roger Moukarzel is a Lebanese photographer and visual artist with a career spanning over three decades. Known for his evocative imagery, he has worked extensively in fashion, advertising, and documentary photography. Moukarzel’s unique style blends traditional and contemporary elements, capturing the essence of Arab culture and heritage. His work has been featured in numerous international exhibitions, and he has collaborated with prestigious brands and publications worldwide. Passionate about storytelling through visuals, Moukarzel continues to push the boundaries of photography, creating compelling narratives that resonate with audiences globally.
Location: 24 Avenue du parc, Karagulla building, ground floor, Minet El Hosn, Beirut Central District
Dates: 3 – 16 July, 2024