Keiran Molaeb
My art currently explores cultural, interpersonal & familial connections, with the goal to engrain memory, pay homage and celebrate the rich diversity of my cultural background as a queer Lebanese artist.
My practise creates a tapestry connecting personal culture and heritage, with each of my paintings acting as a ‘family portrait’, highlighting the familial connection that is felt beyond borders, and the sense of kinship that exists across cultures who share the same land and histories.
Focusing on portraiture, the subjects within my paintings are chosen with consideration and care to reflect on my personal connection to each person, and engrain their memory through art. My creative process is purposely prolonged and intricate to demonstrate dedication and a labour of love to the people I’m paying tribute to.
With an emphasis on storytelling and story sharing, my work centres around the concept of ‘cultural roots’ -- informed by the way roots expand, intertwine, and form methods of connection. My paintings are done on Lebanese cedar wood and olive wood which has been sourced from my father’s home country, Lebanon, and prepared by hand by my grandfather. By incorporating wooden material, I intend for every aspect of my process to connect to the culture I commemorate and celebrate within my artwork.
This installation is dedicated to my father, Eyad Molaeb.