Beirut: Minister of Culture Dr. Ghassan Salameh announced that Lebanon will participate in the Venice Architecture Biennale with a project that highlights the nation's resilience amid challenging surroundings. During a press conference at the National Library in Sanayeh, he revealed the project selected for the 20th International Architecture Exhibition - Venice Biennale 2027. The event gathered notable figures, including Luigi Paoli Puccetti from the Italian Embassy in Beirut, Jad Tabet, and the team from Youssef Tohme Architects and Associates, whose submission was chosen for the exhibition.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Minister Salameh emphasized the importance of architecture that resonates with its environment, moving away from purely artistic expressions. He noted that Lebanon's current circumstances, marked by financial crises and regional instability, make this approach particularly relevant. He highlighted the significance of the selected project as a representation of Lebanon's efforts to thrive despite these obstacles.
Salameh expressed pride in the transparent selection process, which involved a committee reviewing numerous submissions through an open call. The committee, which included past representatives of Lebanon at the Venice Biennale and members from the Orders of Engineers and Architects in Beirut and Tripoli, ensured an objective decision. Salameh thanked Jad Tabet for his contributions and affirmed that the process set a standard for future decisions within the Ministry of Culture.
Luigi Paoli Puccetti, Cultural and Commercial Affairs Officer at the Italian Embassy, expressed Italy's pride and pleasure in Lebanon's participation in the Biennale. He emphasized the mutual cultural ties between Italy and Lebanon, noting that the Biennale serves as a platform for artistic expression and bilateral cooperation. Puccetti conveyed the Italian Ambassador's greetings and highlighted the opportunity this participation presents for both countries to deepen their cultural connections.
The winning project, designed by Youssef Tohme and Associates, was presented in detail by Jad Tabet. Youssef Tohme and Joseph Hourany used a slideshow to explain their project's concept, emphasizing the architectural dialogue it fosters with its environment.
The event underscored the cultural partnership between Lebanon and Italy, emphasizing the importance of artistic exchange and cooperation. Puccetti concluded by expressing confidence that Lebanon's participation in the Biennale will foster new cultural encounters and strengthen the ties between the two nations.