Lee Frederix

B. 1973, United States of America

Lee Frederix is an artist and designer currently based in Beirut. With a diverse background in architecture, fine arts, and urbanism, he brings a unique perspective to his work. He is also the founder of HQ, an open studio for art and design located in Beirut's Mar Mikhael Cultural District.

Having resided in Beirut since 2001, Lee Frederix's artistic practice reflects his multidisciplinary background, combining elements of architecture, urbanism, and fine arts. Through experimental approaches, he seeks to merge these disciplines and explore their intersections. His primary focus lies in three-dimensional media, including assemblage, sculpture, and installation. His current body of work, both in academia and as an artist, investigates themes such as interstitial spaces, alternative mapping, and transgressive urban practices within the context of contemporary Beirut.

About his Work

Beirut shop owners have a peculiar habit of asserting ownership over public parking spaces in front of their businesses by using makeshift placeholders on the street. The Totems of Territory series seeks to challenge this common practice by satirizing the improvised markers used to claim appropriated territory.

This specific totem also serves as a reminder of the loss of Beirut's traditional urban character, which has been overshadowed by corporate and financial interests. Titled 19:C-2, it was created using debris collected from the ACMOR building in Mar Mikhael prior to its demolition and subsequent replacement with the future headquarters of BLC Bank.

Lee Frederix

 Totem of Territory 19:C-2, 2015

Mixed media assemblage, 170 x 40 x 20 cm

Loan from the artist