In the midst of escalating tensions in Lebanon, gallerist Joumana Asseily has temporarily closed her Beirut gallery, Marfa' Projects, as a precaution against the ongoing Israeli airstrikes. Since the onset of recent hostilities, which have resulted in the displacement of approximately 500,000 individuals, Asseily took this step to ensure the safety of her team and visitors.
Founded in 2015, Marfa' Projects has served as a crucial platform for regional artists, located in the vibrant Port District of Beirut. The gallery faced a previous crisis in 2020 when a catastrophic explosion caused by improperly stored ammonium nitrate devastated the area, claiming over 200 lives and damaging several cultural spaces. At that time, Asseily expressed her commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing the gallery.
On March 5, amid the latest wave of bombardments, Asseily made the difficult decision to close the gallery, stating, "We were happy, we had people coming to see our show, et cetera, and then suddenly we saw all those evacuation messages." Following the closure, she left for a pre-planned trip to Paris, although her home and gallery remain outside the immediate danger zones.
The atmosphere in Beirut has been tense, with the Israeli military issuing evacuation orders for several neighborhoods, leading to significant traffic congestion as residents sought safety. Despite this, other galleries, such as Sfeir-Semler in downtown Beirut, have remained open, showcasing the resilience of the local art community.
Currently, Marfa' Projects is featuring an exhibition by Lebanese filmmaker Rania Stephan, titled Isn't It About Time, which delves into apocalyptic themes often explored in science fiction. Asseily noted the irony of the exhibition's subject matter, reflecting the surreal circumstances surrounding her community: "It's very appropriate... it's so surreal."
Despite the challenges, Asseily remains dedicated to her mission, emphasizing, "We don't want to leave. We work with artists from the region. There's so much to say, so much to show, and so much to do. You can't stop." Her commitment to fostering artistic expression in Lebanon stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of those in the face of adversity.
As the art scene in Lebanon continues to navigate these tumultuous times, the determination of artists and gallerists like Asseily highlights the potential for cultural resilience and renewal in the future.