Timeless Traditions: The Art of Haibat Balaa Bawab
Beirut, January 2025 — In her recent solo exhibition Timeless Traditions, renowned Lebanese artist Haibat Balaa Bawab invites us into a world where memory, heritage, and emotion are meticulously stitched together through the medium of collage. Held at the iconic Art on 56th Gallery in Gemmayzeh, Beirut, this show marks a powerful continuation of Balaa’s decades-long dedication to narrating the beauty and resilience of Lebanese life.
A Voice Through Collage
Haibat Balaa Bawab is celebrated for her pioneering work in collage—an art form she uses not just for visual storytelling, but for preserving the collective memory of Beirut and Lebanon. Her new collection includes mixed media collages on cardboard and canvas, bringing together elements like oil, acrylic, gouache, ink, calligraphy, and even silkscreen to create textured, semi-abstract works that pulse with emotion and history.
Born From Turmoil, Crafted With Hope
Created over two years marked by regional instability, the works in Timeless Traditions are more than visual compositions—they are acts of resistance and survival. During times of war and disruption, Balaa retreated to her studio, allowing creativity to become her form of resilience. The result is a collection filled with raw abstraction, nostalgic motifs, and glimmers of optimism rooted in the natural and urban landscapes of Lebanon.
The Evolution of Her Craft
A notable shift in Balaa’s process is her transition from using found paper clippings to preparing her own materials. This hands-on approach has deepened her connection to the work, allowing her to fully control the textures and tones that communicate her inner landscape. The collages reflect a blend of heritage and innovation, staying true to Balaa’s style while pushing new creative boundaries.
About the Artist
Born in Beirut in 1952, Haibat Balaa Bawab received her BA in Fine Arts in 1975 from Beirut University College (now LAU). Over her career, she has taught at major Lebanese institutions and participated in countless exhibitions across Lebanon, the Middle East, and Europe—including the Grand Palais in Paris and the Beijing Biennale.
Her artwork is known for featuring carpets, tapestries, and local iconography, evoking the rich cultural history of Lebanon while reflecting the diverse social layers of its people—from aristocrats to peasants.
Final Thoughts
With Timeless Traditions, Haibat Balaa Bawab proves once again that art can be both deeply personal and profoundly universal. Her work speaks to the pain and beauty of a place that is constantly changing, yet deeply rooted in history. Through her collages, Balaa reminds us that even in times of darkness, tradition and creativity remain timeless.
