Rawia Ghandour Zantout is a Lebanese artist whose passion for painting began at a young age. Although she pursued a degree in business and finance, her love for art remained constant, evolving into a powerful means of expression. Over the years, she has developed a distinctive modern post-impressionist style, layering paint to create depth and texture that bring her subjects to life.

Her work is deeply influenced by Lebanon’s history, beauty and resilience. From capturing pivotal moments such as the March 14th Revolution and the October 17th Uprising to painting commissioned portraits of world leaders, Zantout’s art serves as both a visual narrative and a testament to the enduring spirit of her homeland.

In this exclusive interview, we explore Rawia Ghandour Zantout’s artistic journey, her inspirations and the stories behind her most cherished paintings.

How did painting became such an integral part of your life?

Painting has been a lifelong passion, deeply rooted since childhood. Despite pursuing a degree in business and finance, my love for art never waned. Throughout the years, painting has remained a fundamental part of both personal and creative expression, serving as a constant source of inspiration and fulfillment.

How would you describe your artistic style?

My artistic style can be best described as modern post-impressionism, influenced by the techniques and aesthetics of impressionist painters. This approach has significantly shaped my creative process, leading to a distinctive method of layering paint—sometimes applying up to 15 layers—to achieve a three-dimensional effect that enhances depth and texture. Additionally, the use of specialized mediums facilitates the layering process, allowing the artwork to achieve a dynamic and immersive quality.

Over the years, you’ve tackled some powerful subjects. Can you tell us more about the themes and events that have inspired your work?

My work is deeply influenced by contemporary themes and significant historical events that have shaped the region. The artistic journey began with the March 14th Revolution in 2005, following the assassination of President Rafik Hariri. The powerful imagery and collective emotion of that period served as an initial source of inspiration.

Subsequent works have explored major socio-political events, including the Arab Spring and the Beirut Port explosion, where the aim was to convey a sense of hope amidst tragedy. The October 17th Revolution was also a pivotal moment captured through art, reflecting the resilience and aspirations of the Lebanese people.

Beyond these historical themes, commissioned works have included a portrait of Vladimir Putin, which was sent to the Kremlin, as well as numerous portraits of Lebanese political figures, including those displayed at the Lebanese Serail. This artistic journey has been enriched by a diverse range of subjects, each carrying profound historical and emotional significance.

What’s your favorite painting, and why does it hold such a special place for you?

My favorite painting is one that holds significant personal meaning to me: the March 14th Revolution. The scene it captures from that time is extraordinary, and I feel a deep emotional connection to it. Another painting that I cherish is Water Lilies, as it reflects my profound appreciation for nature, a connection that has always been integral to my life. This painting also evokes memories of my childhood and the place where I grew up. Claude Monet, my favorite artist, has greatly influenced my work, particularly in the way I strive to capture the beauty of the natural world.

What is your favorite subject to paint and why?

Lebanon is undoubtedly my favorite subject to paint, as I find its beauty truly unparalleled. The landscapes of Tyre, Sidon, Baalbek, Beirut and downtown Beirut stand out as some of the most extraordinary sights I have ever encountered, and they consistently inspire my work. The country’s natural and architectural beauty is unmatched, and it is my passion to capture this essence through my art.

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