Nadine Abou Zaki

B. 1975, Ainbal

Nadine Abou Zaki is a multifaceted artist, encompassing the roles of sculptor, writer, and director. She holds a PhD in philosophy from the University of Sorbonne, Paris IV, and imparts her knowledge as a philosophy professor at the American University of Beirut. Additionally, she serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Al Hasnaa Magazine and is the Founder and Executive Chair of the New Arab Women Forum (NAWF).

Abou Zaki received training at the sculpting studios of renowned artists Aref Rayess, Mona Saoudi, and Sami Rifai. Her impactful monumental sculptures can be found prominently displayed in front of significant landmarks such as the Lebanese Ministry of Tourism, the French Embassy, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Beirut.

In recognition of her contributions, Abou Zaki was bestowed with the prestigious title of Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes académiques by the French Ministry of Education in 2016. Furthermore, in 2009, she was honored with the "Prix de la Laicité" by the Secular Republican Committee at la Mairie de Paris.

Abou Zaki's talent and artistic vision were recognized on an international scale when she was selected as Lebanon's representative sculptor for the IVe Jeux de la Francophonie. She also held the title of "Sculptor Ambassador" for Beirut World Book Capital 2009, during which she created The Garden of Dialogue—a collection of five marble benches positioned in the park of the French Cultural Center in Beirut.

Through her work, Abou Zaki has discovered profound insights and personal growth. She describes her experience with stone sculpting as a revelation of the cosmic reality within its existence—a spiritual embodiment of a being. This process has empowered her, revealing hidden strengths and instilling newfound confidence. She reflects that she truly found herself within the stone.

About her Work

Nadine Abou Zaki's artistic journey is deeply rooted in a metaphysical quest, driven by the idea of spiritual ascension. Through sculpting stone and carving wood, she creates constructivist and architectural forms that reflect the essence of the sculptural act itself and its inherent duality.

In her exploration of stone, Abou Zaki experienced a profound sense of aggression that she had never felt before. She sought to force the stone to unveil the reality of its soul, if it possessed one. However, she discovered the opposite—that stone resists penetration through violence and can only be approached through an act of love. As she shaped the stone, she uncovered the cosmic reality of its existence, akin to the incarnation of a being or spirit entering a physical body.

One notable experimental performance by Abou Zaki, titled "Please Don’t Touch," involved sculpting wood and stone while blindfolded, relying solely on the sense of touch instead of sight. She then invited visitors to interact with her sculptures in complete darkness. This interactive experience was a platform for exploring the depths of total obscurity. Furthermore, as a human rights activist, she employed arts and culture to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and to promote environmental awareness.

Abou Zaki's artistic practice transcends traditional boundaries, delving into the spiritual and sensory dimensions of her medium. Through her work, she invites viewers to engage with the tactile and immersive aspects of her sculptures, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a deeper understanding of our connection to the physical and metaphysical realms.

Ziad Abillama

Mahassen Ajam