Syrian artist creates installation of Syrian refugees’ emotions

CAIRO - 30 July 2017: Syrian artist Hrair Sarkissian creates a painful representation of Syria in his piece Homesick, two short videos and a photography series, that are being exhibited at Sursock Museum in Beirut until October 7.

Sarkissian’s project was created in 2014. It consists of an exact replica of the building he grew up in in Syria for the installation. As part of the performance, he chucks an off screen object repeatedly until the building collapses to crumbles.



Homesick by Hrair Sarkissian. Courtesy of Hrair Sarkissian’s official site.


Homesick by Hrair Sarkissian. Courtesy of Hrair Sarkissian’s official site

His actions represent his process of claiming what is his, his home and memories, as well as providing relief by releasing his frustration. This process follows the phenomenon of “to destroy before others destroy you.”


Homesick by Hrair Sarkissian. Courtesy of Hrair Sarkissian’s official site.

Sarkissian’s work is often inspired by his personal life. His work celebrates history of everyday life that is often disregarded by the busy traffic of the world. Sarkissian most recent projects include 'Horizon' and 'Last Scene.' He has also worked on 'Background', 'Transparencies' and 'Unexposed.'