Your work is very Lebanese, but very worldly too. Where do you get your inspiration?
My work is a mixture of Arabic, Yemeni, Moroccan, Syrian, Indian and Nepalese; in fact, I am inspired by all Occidental cultures. First and foremost, I am a Lebanese artist and the Lebanese people are generally open to many cultures, so unconsciously I'm drawn to seek beyond national boundaries.

'State of Art Gallery' is an incredible space, when did you open it?
It was opened 29 April 2009. Ever since then, I've been exhibiting my own work. However, I'll be exhibiting with other artists in the near future.

Your paintings focus on war and suffering. Is this a natural subject for you?
Through my art, I try and express what I see of people and their personal experiences, including war and its effects. People don't like to focus on war. But I have to be true to myself, true to my surroundings: I can't just paint flowers.

You exhibited last year in Austria. How did that collaboration come about?
It came about in a very natural way. I'm part of the Lebanese Austrian Friendship Association and through them I was approached to participate with the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce 20th Anniversary. I was the only artist chosen – I was a central cultural presence. At the show, I exhibited fifteen paintings.

How did people respond to your work?
The reaction was mostly positive, especially for the paintings. I have a lot of cultural contrasts in my work so it was very touching to see Austrians and Arabs – including ambassadors and VIPs – positively reacting to what they see.

For full interview, check March issue 19.