From humorous to ironic, and from heartwarming to inspiring, these illustrations by Lebanese artists give us visual interpretations of some aspects of the Lebanese culture and also of situations or events as perceived by the artists.
Then again, like with any and all arts, the viewers have also their own interpretations of what the piece of art in front of their eyes means to them or how it makes them feel, or how they relate to it.
That’s after all the beauty of art, not just in the embellishment it brings to a space but also (or maybe mainly) in the connection the viewers feel to it, and the invisible yet existing bond that weaves its invisible way between them and the artist through the piece of art.
And these illustrations did exactly that, with Lebanon at its center.
The ongoing Lebanese lifestyle
Candles have become the inevitable night companion of the Lebanese these days amid the dragging electricity crisis. A candle to lit up the room, a candle for some warmth, a candle to study and work…
Too bad a candle can’t get you an internet connection, though, or keep your fridge running…
Illustrator: Lana Merhej
Cheers to voting for change in Lebanon
Voting for change and celebrating it, the traditional Lebanese way… with Arak; an illustration by the Lebanese artist Tony Maalouf, expressing the nation’s hope for change on Election Day 2022.
The new Lebanese trend amid the electricity crisis
With the ongoing shortage of power supply, this optimistic Lebanese seemed quite satisfied to have found a way to adapt… on his rooftop! Once more, the Lebanese resilience strikes the challenge!
Illustrator: Tony Maalouf
Making the best out of the plight
Illustrator Maya Fidawi got inspired by an abandoned house in Mar Mikhael, Beirut, adding details to bring it to life. “In the hope that our dear country stands up again and gets its life back,” she captioned it on Instagram.
And gets its 24/7 electricity back. Cross fingers.
Lebanese mothers on a normal day
Heroes in the shadow… absolutely hardworking and highly praiseworthy… until the shibshib slipper flies its way to you.
Illustrator: Maya Zankoul.
Kaak… Kaak… Come closer and try
One of the best Lebanese childhood memories… “Kaak, Kaak, Arreb w Jarreb” (Kaak, Kaak, come closer and try). Is anyone here getting nostalgic?
Illustrator: Maya Fidawi.
Vibrant Beirut
Beirut by the illustrator Pamela Mansour. A capital of vibrant colors and dynamic vibes.
The Lebanese migrant’s homecoming
An emotional illustration that so many Lebanese can relate to, for the story of heartbreaking emigration is that of countless of families, and how sweet it is when the child returns… whatever the years of separation.
Illustrator: Tony Maalouf.
The Lebanese symbol of conviviality
The traditional cup of coffee: The faithfully present at all Lebanese gatherings, the witness of all joys and sorrows, the friendship-maker, the keeper of exchange secrets, the binders of the neighbors, the inciter of gossips… and you name it!
Our society can’t live without it!
Illustrator: “Solange Stories.”
There’s always a neighbor peering…
…. and who always knows all the in and out of the neighborhood…
Illustrator: Maya Fidawi.
Lively old souk
Not missing the traditional coffee vendor!
Illustrator: Maya Fidawi
The centuries-old Lebanese hobby… for food
A Lebanese special getaway; fishing for the family meal at the Corniche.
Illustrator: Lena Merhej
Lebanese passion for nature
So typical of Lebanese to bring nature into their homes…. even if it sometimes exceeds the limit and the reason.
No judgment here, the nation was born from an eternal tree… (or so goes the legend).
Illustrator: Lena Merhej.
Never-ending socializing
Another entrenched cultural feature the Lebanese can’t survive without…
Illustrator: Leila Charafeddine.
Everybody is welcome!
Inspired by the Lebanese culture, Lebanese illustrator Tony Maalouf conveys everyday normality in Lebanon. Lebanese might be busy with their chores but they still tell you “mayyel”, inviting you to come in.
Hospitality takes priority and you’re always welcome in every Lebanese home like it’s yours!
Through their series of art, these illustrations reflect Lebanese life and its cultural features. There is always more to explore and discover in the Lebanese culture.
