We had the pleasure of visiting an extraordinary art exhibition titled Micro-organisms at Chaos Art Gallery, featuring the work of Edouard Souhaid, a Lebanese artist and architect based in Paris since 2015. Souhaid holds a degree from the École Spéciale d’Architecture (ESA) and a Master 2 from the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de la Villette (ENSA-LV), with a focus on advanced research in the social sciences. This rich educational background significantly enhances his multidisciplinary practice, merging architecture, art, and social sciences into a unique and thought-provoking creative expression.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Souhaid has actively contributed to the cultural landscape of Lebanon. In 2014, he co-founded MINAB, an art management initiative dedicated to promoting and managing art projects. More recently, in 2018, he co-founded the Collective for Architecture Lebanon (CAL)where they further solidified their influence by publishing their first book in 2022 on national narratives in the Arab world.
The Micro-organisms exhibition was a testament to Souhaid’s exceptional talent and versatility. The artworks were vibrant, meticulously detailed. Each piece was a vivid exploration of the microscopic world, transformed into tangible art; using combination of techniques, from 3D printing, wood carving andcanvas. During the exhibition, Souhaid himself provided an insightful tour, explaining the mediums and techniques he used to bring his intricate visions to life. His enthusiasm and detailed explanations gave the audience a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexity and beauty inherent in his work.
The combination of Souhaid’s architectural precision and artistic creativity resulted in a mesmerizing collection that captivated all who attended. The exhibition not only highlighted his artistic skills but also his ability to convey profound concepts through his art. The detailed wood sculptures, with their vibrant and intricate designs, invited viewers to explore the unseen and often overlooked world of micro-organisms, making the exhibition a truly enlightening experience.
Souhaid’s abstract artwork has been showcased in prominent venues such as the Beit Beirut Museum, as well as exhibitions in Ho Chi Minh City and Paris. He has also shared his research and expertise at various conferences, including those held at the American University of Beirut, the Musée Cantonal De Design et d’Art Appliqués Contemporain (MUDAC) in Lausanne, and the European Union Parliament in Brussels.
