Lamia Maria Abillama

Country of Origin: Lebanon (of Lebanese-Brazilian descent)

Medium(s):

  • Photography (portraiture and conceptual series)

  • Video (select works)

Key Themes in Their Work:

Lamia Maria Abillama’s photographic practice delves into the intersections of personal identity, societal structures, and the lingering effects of conflict. Her work often portrays individuals in settings that juxtapose the intimate with the political, highlighting:

  • The psychological impact of prolonged conflict on civilians, particularly women.

  • The dichotomy between public personas and private realities.

  • The influence of socio-political environments on personal identity.

In her series “Clashing Realities,” Abillama photographs Lebanese women in military uniforms within their domestic spaces, symbolizing the pervasive nature of conflict in their lives. This series underscores the intrusion of national turmoil into personal and private spheres. 

Notable Exhibitions or Collections Their Work Is Part Of:

Solo Exhibitions:

  • “Clashing Realities”, Galerie Tanit, Beirut, Lebanon (2016)

  • “Your Excellencies”, Espace Kettaneh Kunigk, Beirut, Lebanon (2013–2014)

Group Exhibitions:

  • “Lebanon Then and Now: Photography From 2006 to 2020”, Middle East Institute, Washington D.C., USA (2020)

  • “arm & reich”, Dom Museum Wien, Vienna, Austria (2021)

  • “Paper Trail - 50 Years Collective Exhibition”, Galerie Tanit, Beirut, Lebanon (2022)

Collections:

  • Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, USA

  • Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe, Hamburg, Germany

Featured collection