About WAEL HAMADEH gallery
I absorb the pain around me and channel it into vibrant, energetic warriors.
Wael Kamel Hamadeh: Bridging Heritage and Contemporary Art
Wael Kamel Hamadeh, born on May 10, 1969, in Baakline, a village nestled in Lebanon’s Chouf mountains, is a distinguished Lebanese artist celebrated for his evocative paintings, sculptures, and photography. His work intricately weaves together themes of heritage, memory, and identity, offering a poignant reflection on Lebanese culture and the broader Arab experience.
Early Life and Artistic Formation
Hamadeh’s artistic inclinations were nurtured from a young age, influenced by his father, a skilled sculptor. This early exposure to craftsmanship laid the foundation for his creative journey. Pursuing formal education, he obtained an art diploma from Edinburgh College of Art in Scotland. His academic pursuits were complemented by extensive travels, during which he amassed a vast collection of over 1.5 million images from 55 countries, enriching his visual lexicon and deepening his appreciation for diverse cultures.
Artistic Style and Themes
Hamadeh’s oeuvre is characterized by a unique blend of oriental surrealism and Middle Eastern folklore. His paintings often depict scenes from Lebanese village life, capturing the essence of rural traditions, landscapes, and communal rituals. Utilizing vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, he brings to life the resilience and spirit of the Lebanese people. His works serve as a visual archive, preserving the intricate details of a fading heritage and reawakening the glory of his homeland through art .
Cultural Significance and Impact
Beyond aesthetic appeal, Hamadeh’s art carries profound cultural significance. He endeavors to challenge prevailing stereotypes about Lebanese by highlighting the richness and diversity of Lebanon culture. Through his creations, he emphasizes the importance of art and education as tools for cultural preservation and dialogue. His commitment to social consciousness is evident in his use of upcycled materials, transforming discarded items into meaningful artworks that reflect both environmental awareness and cultural commentary .
Exhibitions and Recognition
Since relocating to Dubai in 1995, Hamadeh has been an active figure in the regional art scene. He has participated in over 50 group exhibitions and held more than 20 solo exhibitions across the United States, United Arab Emirates, and Lebanon. His work has garnered international acclaim, earning him six international photography and painting awards, including a United Nations Environment and Global Warming prize. His artworks are featured in numerous private collections, as well as in esteemed establishments such as hotels and corporate spaces .
Conclusion
Wael Hamadeh stands as a testament to the power of art in bridging past and present, tradition and innovation. Through his multifaceted creations, he not only preserves the cultural tapestry of Lebanon but also invites global audiences to engage with the nuanced narratives of the Arab world. His dedication to artistic excellence and cultural advocacy underscores his significance in the contemporary art landscape.
“To deny my past would be to let my colors fade. ”
Nestled in the heart of Lebanon, my mountaineer village, Baakleen, is where the history of stone merges with the beauty of nature. It glows with Lebanese culture, a place where tradition and landscape intertwine.
As you walk its roads, olive trees sway with the valley breeze, connecting seven hills in a timeless embrace. The air carries the freshness of soil, the strength of rock, and the vibrancy of color, saturating the senses. Every corner is a wellspring of inspiration, enriching my artistic vision with each silent, reflective moment.
“To deny my past would be to let my colors fade.”
Surrealist Work
Surrealist Brush
My Oriental Surrealist work is deeply rooted in Middle Eastern folklore, infused with a surrealistic twist. The joy of my memories translates into expressive strokes and dynamic movements, creating a fresh and enlightening visual celebration. While many artists delve into the darkness of life, I absorb the pain around me and channel it into vibrant, energetic warriors—figures I have nurtured to fight against despair.
Through my surrealist brush, I have cultivated a signature style—one that upholds ethics, honors existence, and embodies resilience.
History
Since 1995, I have lived in Dubai, working in the airline industry—a journey that broadened my perspective and introduced me to the world. Listening to my inner voice, I chose to follow my true passion: art. To refine my skills, I pursued an art diploma in Edinburgh, Scotland, where I explored the interplay of light and brushwork. Over time, I built an extensive image library of over half a million photographs, spanning 55 destinations and captured through digital, 35mm, and medium formats.
MY
Surrealist Brush
My Oriental Surrealist work is deeply rooted in Middle Eastern folklore, infused with a surrealistic twist. The joy of my memories translates into expressive strokes and dynamic movements, creating a fresh and enlightening visual celebration. While many artists delve into the darkness of life, I absorb the pain around me and channel it into vibrant, energetic warriors—figures I have nurtured to fight against despair.
Through my surrealist brush, I have cultivated a signature style—one that upholds ethics, honors existence, and embodies resilience.
MY
HISTORY
Since 1995, I have lived in Dubai, working in the airline industry—a journey that broadened my perspective and introduced me to the world. Listening to my inner voice, I chose to follow my true passion: art. To refine my skills, I pursued an art diploma in Edinburgh, Scotland, where I explored the interplay of light and brushwork. Over time, I built an extensive image library of over half a million photographs, spanning 55 destinations and captured through digital, 35mm, and medium formats.
Interesting Details
