Spirit – A Magazine Designed for the Diverse Woman
Volume 3, Issue 6 – Lebanon Jewel Of The Mediterranean

Creative Canvasses of Life:

Artistic Creations of Joseph Matar
by Francessca Molier

Art is one of the most universal communicative techniques that takes hold of society and demands respect for various periods in time. Art is the result of one’s passion for life and all of its characteristics. Art is a visual conversation between the artist and audience. Artists express their zeal through the powerful virtue of their imagination, where developing a superior skill becomes their creative mission. Some artists reveal their philosophy through their artistic expression and the exquisite strokes that caress each unique canvas.

Joseph Matar is such an artist. His work reveals his philosophy on life, the passion of his imagination, and his creative skill. Each canvas he creates has its own unique story and style. His love and passion is reflected through the various hues, textures, and artistic styles he develops. Let’s embark on an artistic journey and explore the wonders that creativity and imagination can create.

Spirit: It has been said that art stimulates the mind, and enhances one’s intellectuality. What are your thoughts and opinions about this issue?

Joseph: Art can represent many different things to many different people. It is a poetic language, a means of expression, a vehicle for intellectual activity and human thought. Art is a great adventure of intertwining civilization and culture.

Spirit: What has been your deepest artistic inspiration?

Joseph: Life in all of its aspects inspires me, whether it is illuminated by the sun or our spirit, especially nature, landscape, nature’s forces. Human activity inspires in me emotions that are the essence of my passion. In addition, I am inspired by ideas and historical events of all kinds. Art is very sacred to me. It is a way for me to use my creativity and talent to communicate with world. My art reflects my innermost thoughts and emotions, and it radiates the passion I put into every piece I create.

Spirit: As a Lebanese artist, what do you notice about Lebanon’s beauty that may not be visible to the average person?

Joseph: Lebanon is a small and beautiful country. Its architectural and scenic beauty is breathtaking – far beyond the limitations of postcard. All of God’s creations are beautiful. Every place on the planet has its unique allure. As far as I am concerned, I have lived, studied and was exposed to many parts of the world and I learned to respect the special touches of diversity in each country I traveled through. I have also learned that art has neither frontier nor nationality. It is strictly bound to humanity.

Spirit: What would you like the world to know about Lebanon?

Joseph: Lebanon is a nation that gets its heritage from six thousand years of civilization. From Thales, Euclide, Pythagore, Mokhos, who belonged to the Phoenician coast, to our present days, one of our greatest contributions, the alphabet, was conceived at Byblos and is considered one of the major inventions of the human mind. Lebanon is a nation of great concepts of artistic treasures, through its architecture and exquisite natural beauty. Lebanon’s splendor can be compared to the exquisite picturesque details that are stroked on the canvas of creativity.

Spirit: As you create your pieces, is there a specific thought or emotion you would like to invoke within your audiences’ mind and soul?

Joseph: Every work of art should communicate an idea, a sensation, passion and love to the audience who value the depth of each piece, which will cultivate their thoughts and emotions with its message.

Spirit: What advice would you like to give to all the aspiring artists that will be reading this interview?

Joseph: Artists are very sensitive people who deeply care about motivating and enhancing society through their strokes and colors. Art in all its aspects – music, poetry and paintings – is an essential part of our lives. Art is a passion that requires great love, will, knowledge, talent and devotion. It demands perseverance, dedication, and sometimes days without end. It is a lifetime commitment. Talented artists adhere to the inner satisfaction of seeing their work respected and valued by others.