An Article by D. M. (639 words, 3 min. read)
Spring arrived at Dar El-Nimer for Arts & Culture not just as a season, but as a theme, through a well-curated auction by Nada Boulos, that paid homage to both the freshness of nature and the enduring spirit of modern and contemporary Arab art. Held on the 2nd floor of the elegant venue on Justinian Street, Clemenceau, the auction stood out for its clarity, aesthetic appeal, and respect for the works on display.
A Clear and Honest Auction Experience
In a world where art auctions can sometimes feel either opaque or artificially inflated, this particular sale was a refreshing exception. Bidders were given the opportunity to participate live online, watching the progression of each lot from the starting bid. Unlike other auctions that often confuse collectors with erratic pricing—either unreasonably low, diminishing the artwork’s value, or unreasonably high, deterring sincere interest—this auction struck a thoughtful balance. Each estimate reflected market reality without undermining the significance of the work.
Such transparency is rare and deserves to be recognized. In contrast to events where artworks are thrown into bidding with little regard for artistic merit or presentation, this sale followed proper guidelines, valuing the legacy and integrity of the artists it represented.
Exhibited with Elegance: A Curated Visual Experience
More than just a commercial event, the auction was laid out like an exhibition. The display was curated with care and taste, transforming the auction hall into a gallery space that respected the eye and intelligence of the observer. The works were not crammed or poorly lit; they were given room to breathe, allowing viewers (both in person and online) to engage with them emotionally and intellectually. This curatorial elegance elevated the auction from mere commerce to cultural moment.
Honoring Greatness: Halaby, El Khal, Rayess, and More
The selection of artists was both refined and meaningful. A particular highlight was the inclusion of a painting by Samia Halaby, a pioneering Palestinian abstract artist whose recent resurgence in the art market is not only timely but deeply deserved. Her politically charged yet visually poetic work carries the gravity of resistance and the optimism of abstraction. Her presence in the auction added not just financial weight, but emotional and cultural depth.
Works by Helen El Khal, known for her lyrical abstraction and subtle mastery of color and form, stood as a testament to the quiet strength of Lebanese modernism. The legacy of Aref El Rayess, with his powerful lines and expressive dynamism, reminded us of his enduring relevance, especially in times of sociopolitical turbulence.
Paul Guiragossian’s iconic human forms radiated both suffering and hope; a painter of people in every sense, whose work transcends the specific to reach the universal. Jamil Molaeb, another contemporary giant, brought warmth and tradition into dialogue with modern expression, while Nadia Saikaly’s vibrant compositions spoke to the pioneering role of women in shaping Lebanese visual culture. The poetic color harmonies of Elie Kanaan and the bold, joyous visual language of Hussein Madi further enriched the selection, each contributing a unique and recognizable voice to the story of Lebanese art.
A Model to Follow
This auction should serve as a model for how regional art sales can and should be conducted. It respected artists, collectors, and the cultural space it inhabited. By adhering to professional standards, presenting artworks in a dignified manner, and valuing transparency in pricing, it stood in stark contrast to many other auctions that often fail to meet even basic expectations.
When the art world often leans too far into spectacle or commercial excess, it is comforting (and rare) to witness an event where art remains the central focus. Nada Boulos’ spring auction reminded us that integrity and beauty still have a place in the market.
It was, quite simply, a breath of fresh spring air.
