Issue 4-4

We share experiences of Art Basel 39 including the Canvas-organized panel discussion. Following political turbulences in Lebanon, we were delighted to finally land in Beirut to visit this issue’s art patron Johnny Mokbel and his formidable collection of antiques and contemporary art. Also in Beirut, Canvas explores the numerous mosaics at Villa Blanche and in Egypt we delve into the works of Omar El-Nagdi. Mirroring the success of Iranian artists at the recent Christie’s Dubai auction, this issue features a wide array of Iranian talent with profiles on the novel-turned-film Persepolis, artist Reza Derakshani and photographer Mitra Tabrizian. Last but not least, this issue’s cover is inspired by the iconic traditional Middle Eastern headdress ghutra, which has been transformed into a sought-after fashion statement by designer Essa.