Arleb by Nabad interviews visual artist Michel Raad, who believes in the importance of building peace through the arts, as they can help develop empathy, and allow viewers to take a new perspective and to understand others better.

Arleb by Nabad – What is your background and what is the experience that has influenced your work the most?

Michel Raad – I am a self-taught visual artist. I became interested in art 25 years ago. I worked for many years on developing new techniques and on finding my own way. I am inspired by the old masters, and I create artworks by combining several styles and being influenced by different art movements, such as the gothic, the renaissance, romanticism, and realism. I prefer oil painting and mixed media on paper.

Arleb by Nabad – Which subjects or themes are you working on? 

Michel Raad – I am specialized in religious and historical arts, and I am working on new themes such as symbolism, philosophy and peace. 

Arleb by Nabad – What is your creative process like? 

Michel Raad – I always have new ideas and visions which I try to quickly draw on a piece of paper that I develop later on canvas.

Arleb by Nabad – What was the impact of the Beirut port explosions (August 4, 2020) on your work as an artist/creative enterprise? 

Michel Raad – Following the Beirut port explosions, I focused on peace and security as the main themes of my artworks. Art can be used as an entry point for peace building.

Arleb by Nabad – What are, according to you, the roles of arts and culture in social, economic, environmental or political change? 

Michel Raad – I always defined art as decorative and independent, but I also believe that art could influence people and help improve quality of life. Good art can elevate the standards of a society. 

Arleb by Nabad – What are, according to you, the main challenges/obstacles facing artists/creative enterprises in Lebanon nowadays? 

Michel Raad – The main challenges facing artists in Lebanon are the absence of an active art market, art materials high prices, and people who appreciate and who can afford art are a rare phenomenon, whereas many do not acknowledge the true value of local masterpieces.

CHECK OUT MICHEL RAAD PROFILE AND ARTWORKS FOR SALE ON ARLEB.