From Beirut to Dubai: A Journey of Color and Contrast
Kristel Bechara, a Lebanese-born artist based in Dubai, has carved a niche in the contemporary art world with her distinctive style that marries dynamic patterns and expressive colors against monochromatic backgrounds. Her artworks are not just visually striking but also deeply thought-provoking, celebrating life and honoring beauty in its myriad forms.
Having embarked on her artistic journey over a decade ago in the UAE, Kristel’s passion and dedication have propelled her to international acclaim. Her collections have graced galleries in cities like Tokyo, Milan, London, Côte d’Azur, Miami, and Brussels, earning her a place among the luminaries of contemporary art.
A Style That Speaks Volumes
Kristel’s art is renowned for its innovative use of dynamic patterns and expressive colors set against monochromatic backgrounds. This unique combination creates imagery that is both vivid and contemplative. Her technique involves creating stencil-like drawings combined with modern mixed media lines, resulting in multi-layered fantasy paintings that delve deep into the human condition.
Her works often draw inspiration from Greek mythology, interpreting ancient tales to craft contemporary narratives that resonate with modern audiences. This fusion of classical themes with modern aesthetics offers viewers a fresh perspective on timeless stories.
Celebrating Women and Diversity
A recurring theme in Kristel’s work is the celebration of women and diversity. Her collections, such as “The Wise Women” and “Beauty in Diversity,” pay homage to the strength, resilience, and beauty of women across cultures. Through her art, Kristel addresses issues like gender parity and empowerment, making her work not just visually appealing but also socially relevant.
Her dedication to these themes has not gone unnoticed. Kristel has been featured in esteemed publications like Forbes Magazine, Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar ART, and Wired, further cementing her status as a leading voice in contemporary art.
Collaborations with Global Brands
Kristel’s unique artistic vision has led to collaborations with several world-renowned brands. She has partnered with TEDx, Glenfiddich, Lenovo, Samsung, OnStar (General Motors), Meta (Instagram), Birkenstock, RedBull, One Off (Quincy Jones), and WIO Bank. These collaborations have resulted in artworks that focus on themes close to Kristel’s heart: innovation, empowerment, and individuality.
One notable collaboration was with pastry chef Ines Chatti, where they combined visual arts with culinary craftsmanship to create delectable art pieces resembling rose bouquets. This partnership showcased Kristel’s versatility and her ability to transcend traditional art forms.
Embracing Technology: The NFT Frontier
Always at the forefront of innovation, Kristel has embraced the digital art revolution by venturing into NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). She is among the first established female artists from the Middle East to adopt this technology, further expanding the reach of her art in the digital realm.
Her digital artworks maintain the same vibrancy and depth as her traditional pieces, offering collectors a new medium through which to experience her art. This move not only showcases her adaptability but also her commitment to staying relevant in the ever-evolving art landscape.
A Hub of Creativity: The Onyx Tower Studio
Residing in Dubai, Kristel operates from her studio located in the Onyx Tower. This space is more than just a workplace; it’s a hub of creativity where she brings her visions to life. The studio also serves as a venue for private viewings, allowing art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in her latest collections.
Her daily routine reflects a balance between her professional and personal life. Mornings are dedicated to creating art, while afternoons and evenings are reserved for family time. This equilibrium is evident in her work, which often exudes warmth, passion, and authenticity.
Recent Exhibitions and Accolades
Kristel’s artworks have been showcased in numerous exhibitions worldwide. Some of her recent shows include:
- Affordable Art Fair in Battersea, London (March 2025)
- Fresh: Art Fair at Alexandra Palace, London (January-February 2025)
- Art Miami at Kavashnina Gallery, Miami (December 2024)
- Rhapsody of Colour at Eclectic Gallery, London (June-July 2024)
- A Symphony of Shadows & Light at Kanvas, Dubai (February-April 2024)
Her contributions to the art world have been recognized with several awards, including the UAE Resident Artist Award at the 2018 World Art Dubai for her collection “Beauty in Diversity”.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond creating art, Kristel is passionate about inspiring others. She has participated in events like TEDxJAS Youth, where she discussed how technology augments creativity. Through such engagements, she aims to motivate budding artists to explore their creativity and embrace innovation.
Connect with Kristel Bechara
For those interested in exploring Kristel’s work further or making inquiries:
- Email: info@atelierkristel.com
- Studio Address: Onyx Tower 1, Studio 804, The Greens, Dubai, UAE
- Website: atelierkristel.com
- Instagram: @kristelbechara
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