The Ras Beirut Elementary have had quite a unique experience recently visiting the old (and beautiful) Al Zaher house in the Zarif area. Tom Young, the British artist and resident in Lebanon, has been working with the children of Dar Al Aytam Al Islamiyah and last month showcased much of his own work as well as work of those children. Several classes visited the exhibition and were fortunate to see this old home (once the British Ambassador’s residence) restored to close to its former glories as well as to meet Tom Young in person. Indeed, one class were so fortunate that they were treated to a private viewing of Mr Young’s studio there and even saw him painting! The experience afforded the children the understanding of how art can be used to express yourself as well as for the good of the community. After this success, and his previous success at the Rose House in Manara, we wish Mr Tom Young all the best in his next adventure and we are sure Beirut, and particularly its old heritage, will benefit greatly.
