Where are our cultural players in times of war, and what are they doing?

L'Agenda Culturel went to meet them, interview them and listen to their stories.

Haibat Balaa Bawab , painter. Lives in Beirut.

Thank God, my family, acquaintances, and I are well. However, my homeland is deeply wounded. My daily life is quite similar. I engage in the minimum necessary activities to adapt to the current situation, such as preparing food and getting some physical movement by checking on nearby relatives, as well as following the news.

It’s difficult for me to pursue artistic activities under these circumstances. I can’t imagine holding a pen to draw, or a brush to apply color, or touching paper or materials to inspire me for a painting. Although we have previously gone through tough situations that motivated me to express what we were suffering through art, these days I feel my hands are bound.

My homeland has gone through difficult phases before and has overcome them. However, at this time, I see the situation as challenging and concerning. There is always hope that these dark clouds will dissipate and light and peace will return to our homeland.

I believe people should occupy their time with their work, if possible, reading, and connecting with family and friends to ease the tension.

May God restore peace and security to our homeland Lebanon.