Beirut-based Gallerist Kalim Bechara Expands His Artistic Empire
Collaborating with galleries and curators worldwide, Kalim hopes to showcase the beauty and depth of Arab art from his new space in downtown Beirut
Kalim Bechara, the visionary founder and director of Kalim Bechara Art Gallery (previously known as Kalim ArtSpace), is making waves in the art world with the expansion of his artistic empire. On February 1st, 2025, Bechara unveiled his second gallery in the heart of downtown Beirut, marking a significant milestone in his journey to showcase and promote Arab art on a global stage.
The new space, an upgrade from his original gallery in Hamra which opened in 2021, represents a bold step forward for Bechara. “This time, we’re not only showcasing emerging artists anymore,” Bechara explains. “We’re also working with established artists – local, regional, and international. We’re bringing artists from all over the world to showcase their work in this gallery.” This expansion comes at a time when the Arab art market is experiencing unprecedented growth and attention. Bechara notes, “The art market, especially the Arab art market, has evolved tremendously in recent years. It’s gaining more attention worldwide from collectors and museums. Prices are going up. This is the new market to watch.”
Bechara’s journey in the art world is as colorful as the pieces he curates. Born into a family of designers and a musician himself, he’s been immersed in the arts since childhood. This rich background has significantly influenced his curatorial decisions, allowing him to create beautifully curated exhibitions that resonate with art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Looking ahead, Bechara has his sights set on further expansion. “Within the next year, we want to open a space in Dubai,” he reveals. “It’s the hub of art in the region and my second home.” This move aligns with his vision to maintain strong relationships throughout the Gulf region.
Despite the challenges of maintaining high standards while nurturing new talent, Bechara remains committed to his role as an incubator for emerging artists. “It’s a big responsibility to keep a certain standard and at the same time, keep your doors open to these emerging talents,” he reflects. “I’m becoming a father figure, an incubator. People come looking for emerging talents and new artists in my gallery, and this is something I’m proud of.”
Bechara’s unique approach to promoting Arab artists on the global stage includes leveraging social media, creating educational videos, and participating in major international art fairs. He’s passionate about exposing the work of his artists abroad, collaborating with galleries and curators worldwide to showcase the beauty and depth of Arab art.
As Kalim Bechara continues to shape the landscape of Arab art, his expanding gallery network stands as a testament to his dedication and vision. With his finger on the pulse of the art world and a deep commitment to nurturing talent, Bechara is not just running a business – he’s cultivating a cultural movement that’s set to leave an indelible mark on the global art scene.
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