Angoisse. Painting

Chantal Goraieb Figurative Abstract, Genre Oil and Acrylic on Canvas ¬¬¬Intoduction to Chantal Goraieb Chantal Goraieb is a recognised Lebanese artist best known for her figurative and abstract paintings depicting the human emotions under common and intense conditions. She was born in Beirut in 1968 to a family well rooted in art and theatre. Educated in art and design, Goraieb started her early career in interior design and ceramic pottery painting. Her passion for art later developed for painting on canvas using oil and acrylic. Her early works were inspired by ancient cultures and religions using symbols, patterns and repetition demonstrating an infinite regularity inherent in life; a style that is still so evident in her most recent works. Her use of brush strokes is almost minimalistic, and the choice of colours is intentionally concise, producing incantatory rhythms, which draws the viewer in and forces him to identify with the subject. Through the lens of her own consciousness, Goraieb’s observation of human relationships is the driving force behind the core of her works. Abstract and expressionist, the artworks reflect Goraieb’s representation of her perception and relationship with her surroundings. Faces are almost like masks, predominantly featured in her latest collection and when partially revealed, appear to be torn and roaming in their existence. “I conceive the face as the reflection of people’s depth. I therefore focus on the authentic and true feelings, which we often hide, apprehending the others’ reaction.” Amidst a tormented universe of lost and fearful souls, Goraieb’s canvases also express self-determination and offer a glimpse of hope. A world of colour and smiles gradually shifts and almost unnoticed offers the viewer innumerable possibilities. Goraieb’s paintings are showcased in Lebanon, the UAE and London are part of numerous permanent exhibitions in Beirut.