Beirut-based artist and architect Mazen Al-Rifai is best known for his ability to capture the luster of his hometown   Baalbek, which has remained his source of inspiration over the years, in his small-scale paintings, through thick brushstrokes.

 

 Al-Rifai holds a BA in Fine Art from Macerata, Italy, and a BA in Interior Design from the Lebanese University. He taught fine arts and was department head at LU before leaving to focus on architecture and painting, taking on the role of Artistic Director at Engineers Consulting and Contracting. He is still a consultant in construction, rehabilitation and renovation to the Council for Development and Reconstruction. Al-Rifai has participated in many solo exhibitions locally and internationally, including performances in Beirut at Epreuve d’Artiste, Galerie Rochane, Galerie Aida Cherfan, Gallery 6 and Agial.

 

Al-Rifai published two books: Baalbek in Black and White with Dar Al-Nahar in 2007, and Baalbek 1981-2011 with the House of Fine Arts in 2011.

 

As for now, he holds his exhibition “Recent Works”, at Agial Gallery which started on November 9 and will continue until December 4, 2021, so do not miss the opportunity to visit.