World renowned Lebanese artist -Hrair - exhibits "In Search of Light"

Having exhibited his paintings in some of the most established galleries across the world, the Lebanese artist has earned his recognition as one of the leading Arabic artists of the modern era; focusing on horses, women, flowers and landscapes as his key subjects.

In conjunction with the exhibition, Hrair has collaborated with Emirati calligraphy artist Mohammed Mandi to create a unique piece that the two will craft in the Cultural Foundation from June 12th - 23rd.

The final painting will become one of several pieces of artwork to be auctioned in 2009, with all proceeds being awarded to an aspiring local artist as a grant to study in Italy, in conjunction with the Italian Embassy, at one of the leading art schools.

"In Search Of Light" offers an insight in to Hrair's world, a world that truly demonstrates not only his passion for art and differing forms, but the subjects in which he chooses to study. "Everything moves me and inspires me to paint. While I may choose to paint certain forms, the process that takes place beforehand plays an integral part and allows me to draw upon all my experiences," commented Hrair.

"As with each exhibition I do, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my life with art enthusiasts. It doesn't matter how well versed people are in my chosen field; the most important thing is that they leave feeling inspired."

Driven by the true essence of art, Hrair invited art students from universities across the U.A.E as well as those of the Cultural Foundation to participate in an art workshop.

Introduced to his painting style, work methods and insights in to honing artistic skills, the workshop's objective to create enthusiasm in the individual's ability and inspire them to stretch their artistic imagination was met with resounding success.

Hrair's creation of unique artwork continues to attract art lovers from all walks of life, including royalty and celebrities such as King Fahad Bin Abdulaziz and King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia, Queen Elizabeth II of England, Prince Rainier of Monaco, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Antony Quinn, Liza Minelli and Kirk Douglas.

While flattered to boast such names as followers, Hrair continues to stress that if his love of painting touches the heart, no matter of that person's stature, then he is truly grateful for his gift and only wishes to share his experiences and feelings in canvas.

Being held in the Ibn Dhaher Hall, First Floor at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation from June 10th - 21st, and the collaboration with Mohammed Mandi running through to June 23rd, "In Search Of Light" has been brought to the region through BE creative, a agency that has set its sights on promoting and encouraging Arabic / Islamic artists originating from the region.

The exhibition is being supported by Abu Dhabi Culture and Heritage, sponsored by the Bin Dismal Abu Dhabi Printing and Publishing Company, and in association with B.E. International.