Moustafa Farroukh (1901-1957)
Mustafa Farroukh was born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1901. Since his youth, he attended art schools and finally graduated in 1927 from the Royal College of Fine Arts in Rome in the year 1927. He participated in numerous exhibitions.He proceeded to Paris where he embarked on further studies under the guidance of Paul Chabas, the president of the Society of French Artists, Forain, Jules, Crown, Bompard, and others. His participation in a number of exhibitions including ones in the famous "Le Salon" hall earned him glowing reviews.
He travelled through Spain and spent a period of time in Andalusia (1930) where his appreciation of Arabic art and architechture had a long lasting effect on his artistic touch. He produced several paintings representing the Arab legacy in Spain.
Back in Lebanon in 1932, and after exhibiting his art in several galleries, he settled in his Bab Idriss Studio (Ayass Bldg.) where he also established a permanent exhibition of his artwork.
He taught Art at the American University of Beirut (AUB) and lectured in various academies and clubs. He joined the group of philosophers, thinkers, and men and women of literature who lectured in the renowned "Al Nadwa" gatherings or "Le Cénacle Libanais".
Over the years, Farroukh's art never ceased to mature. He was noted for his penchant for clear colors, and a deep understanding of his subjects as was reflected in his art whether it was his portraits, landmarks, or scenery from his homeland.
His paintings were also featured in several exhibitions abroad, notably in Venice (1937) New York at the International Exhibition (1940). In 1950, as a tribute to his work and dedication, Farroukh's name was chosen for listing in Benezit, the world's most renowned collection for bibliographical art reference.
In 1954 he was awarded the Order of Merit, and the Order of the Cedar by the State.
Mustafa Farroukh passed away in 1957 following an illness.
During his famed career, Farroukh produced over 2000 paintings most of which were acquired by collectors both in Lebanon and abroad. He also wrote five books including a biography.