Lola Sahar’s (1998) artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of cultural exchange and personal exploration. Born and raised in Moissac, South West France, Lola’s path to artistic discovery began with a preparatory school in Toulouse before she embarked on a transformative journey at the Beaux Arts of Marseille in 2017. It was during this period that Lola honed her skills under the mentorship of Ugo Schiavi, delving into the intricacies of silicone molding, acrylic resin, and plaster techniques.

However, it was Lola’s deep connection to her paternal family roots in Palestine that profoundly influenced her artistic vision. Over the past four years, Lola made multiple pilgrimages to Palestine, immersing herself in the rich tradition of Palestinian ceramics, particularly the intricate « Armenian » motif of Jerusalem. Her experiences in places like Burj al Luq Luq enriched her understanding of cultural heritage and its intersection with contemporary global dynamics.

In 2023, Lola’s journey culminated in the attainment of her DNSEP, a testament to her commitment to interrogating the commodification of folklore in the context of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Through her installations, Lola grapples with the complexities of globalization, shedding light on the porous boundaries of cultural identity in a world marked by displacement and exploitation.

Post-graduation, Lola found herself at L’Atelier des Lilas in Marseille, a vibrant hub where artists and artisans converge in a spirit of creative camaraderie. Here, she collaborated with the acclaimed Nasser Al Aswadi, further enriching her artistic repertoire and expanding her horizons.

Central to Lola’s artistic evolution are the encounters with fellow artists whose works have left an indelible mark on her practice. From the visionary Peter Fridl to the evocative storytelling of Mohamed Hawajri, Lola draws inspiration from a diverse array of voices that challenge and inspire her to push the boundaries of her creativity.

In her quest for artistic truth, Lola Sahar finds solace and guidance in the writings of Edouard Glissant, whose philosophies on identity, diversity, and relational aesthetics resonate deeply with her own artistic ethos. As Lola continues to navigate the complex tapestry of cultural exchange and artistic expression, her work stands as a poignant reminder of the power of art to bridge divides and foster understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.