It was with all its paradoxes, that a design scene rapidly developed from 2000 onwards, swiftly garnering acclaim from critics, design fairs and the entire industry. The vibrance of design from Lebanon stands out as an exception in the region and needs to be understood via the country’s long-standing cultural relations with Europe, especially France, but also with the Emirates and their ancient craft traditions, which play a part in the originality of products by Lebanese designers. Beirut is building its own design culture, transforming its multiculturalism into creative energy.
This publication analyzes Lebanon’s unique situation—a convergence of economic and architectural reconstruction, social awareness and international development. It also testifies to the designers’ determination to take ownership of their destiny and image by presenting objects and forms that are simultaneously aware of their diverse heritage and are deeply rooted in a complex reality. Prior to the development of this exhibition and publication project, no extensive research has been undertaken on the history of design in Lebanon. This book aims to fill that gap, presenting the state of design based on extensive documentation. It is the first retrospective on design in Lebanon, from the 1920s until today, includes works by over 50 designers, uncovering this major design scene in the Middle-East.
About the Publishers
Founded in 2015 with the mission of promoting the talent of artists from the region, Kaph Books is a publishing house based in Beirut, Lebanon, and specialising in quality art books on Middle-Eastern artists or art practices. Each book is unique, created in collaboration with the artists and contributors with high technical and design quality.
