A cultural shift is underway in the Middle East, swiftly bringing art to the forefront. As art becomes an integral aspect of society, the impactful change is particularly evident in the rise of esteemed art institutions like the Museum of Islamic Art and Katara Cultural Village in Doha and the Jameel Arts Center in Dubai. The region continues to rise as a distinct global cultural hotspot, capitalizing on the power of art to shift perspectives and create dialogue. Many prominent patrons have emerged from this movement, with Tony Salame, Ramzi Dalloul, Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi and Elie Khouri to name a few, who are pushing the movement forward as both advocates and collectors within the art scene.
As a longstanding art patron and collector, Elie Khouri embodies the growing passion for the arts in the Middle East. Originally from Beirut, Lebanon, Mr. Khouri’s journey as an art collector began in the late 2000s. Throughout an extensive professional background in media and advertising, Khouri is now serving as the CEO of Vivium, a Dubai-based Family Office specializing in alternative investing, as well a non-executive chairman of OMNICOM Media Group MENA. Alongside his corporate responsibilities, Khouri has cultivated a profound love for art, dedicating substantial time and resources to building a vast and thought-provoking collection.
Khouri’s collection includes various artistic styles and mediums, reflecting his diverse taste and discerning eye for talent. Khouri’s collection spans multiple artistic expressions, from abstract compositions to more figurative works. Alongside esteemed artists like Gunther Förg, Julie Curtiss, Dana Schutz, and Rashid Johnson, Khouri also extends his support to current talents, nurturing new voices in the art world. Contemporary themes in Khouri’s collection are reflected in the works of Kehinde Wiley, George Condo, Christina Quarles, Carol Bove, Olafur Eliasson.
Mr. Khouri highlights that his approach to collecting is a delicate balance of intuition and discernment. He describes his method as fluid, allowing himself to be compelled by the innovative works of rising artists while maintaining an appreciation for established and renowned figures in the art world. Driven by a desire to curate a collection that depicts the intricacies of contemporary life, Khouri actively seeks out artworks that explore resonant themes such as globalization, identity, and communication.
Beyond his collection, Khouri is deeply engaged in philanthropic endeavors to promote art education and empower emerging talent. Serving on committees for prestigious institutions like Tate and the Museum of Modern Art, Khouri actively contributes to acquiring significant artworks, enriching cultural institutions, and nurturing artistic innovation. Notably, Elie has continuously been a supporter and contributor of the Lebanese Pavilion at the Venice art Biennale, as well as supported the Association for the Promotion and Exhibition of the Arts in Lebanon. His philanthropic initiatives illustrate his belief in art’s ability to enhance and elevate society. These ventures fuel him to create opportunities for artists to thrive and for communities to engage with art on a deeper level.
Elie Khouri’s journey as an art collector mirrors the evolving cultural growth of the Middle East. The region continues to embrace its rich artistic heritage, and visionaries like Mr. Khouri pave the way in further shaping its cultural identity as his collection expands. Establishing an environment where creative expression can flourish, Khouri’s dedication to supporting art is ultimately rooted in a deep appreciation for creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange. Through his passion for art and devotion to giving back, the art collector ensures that art’s impact endures and unifies with education and inspiration at the foundation.
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