Museum Collections

 

We are delighted to announce that the Sursock Museum in Beirut, Lebanon, received in its permanent collection two works by Douglas Abdell: 'Lbbn' and 'Libanizar El Planeta #3'.

 

Douglas Abdell, born to an Italian mother and Lebanese father, relocated from NYC to Spain in the early 1990s. His sculptural and painterly practice delves around Phoenician and Etruscan alphabets, symbolism, and archaeology.

 

In his practice, Abdell follows a systematic approach of deconstruction and reconstruction, with a clear political perspective. For instance, in the series of etchings exemplified by 'Libanizar El Planeta #3', Abdell explicitly criticises the geopolitics and influential forces at play in the Lebanon-Palestine-Israel conflict.

 

'Lbbn,' is part of Douglas Abdell's 'Phoenician' sculptures inspired by archaeological sites in Lebanon. While not historically accurate, this stone sculpture challenges national pride associated with heritage symbols. It serves as a reconstructed artifact, bringing together the Phoenician states. The sculpture features Phoenician and Arabic hieroglyphs with references to ancient funerary and architectural styles, resembling sacred columns carrying a hidden message.

 

These additions to the Sursock Museum’s collection highlight Abdell's deep connection and commitment to his Mediterranean roots and his exploration in reimagining its traditions and influences.