Beuritifying Reality in Digital Sketches
Tony Maalouf
Tony Maalouf, Courtesy of the Artist
Tony Maalouf is a talented Lebanese digital artist renowned for his ability to capture the essence of Lebanese life through his unique artwork. Born and raised in the rural region of Beqaa, his works beautifully blend traditional elements of Lebanese culture with modern artistic expressions. With a background in engineering and a passion for storytelling, Maalouf uses digital art to depict characters in ordinary settings, transforming everyday scenes into meaningful, vibrant works that resonate with both local and international audiences. His art reflects the beauty of life in Lebanon, offering a fresh perspective on its rich heritage. DIVAZ caught up with the artist for a chat that was both fun and informing, much like Maalouf’s humorously enlightening art.
Tell us about your background. How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity?
I was born and raised in Lebanon, in the rural Beqaa Valley. You can see the influence of this in my drawings and videos, as I aim to present it in a modern way. It’s an important heritage for future generations, something I want them to cherish. I studied engineering here in Lebanon, then continued my studies in Milan. Initially, I chose engineering because it seemed like a more lucrative path. However, I eventually found myself expressing stories through digital art, which provides a new way of storytelling beyond traditional mediums like oil painting.
How would you describe your artistic style?
My style is focused on conveying my message as simply and clearly as possible—whether it’s through ideas, drawings or concepts. The idea itself is very important to me because it needs to be understood by everyone. If the idea is complex, I try to simplify it, creating a scenario that makes it clear without using complicated techniques or storytelling methods that might make the concept difficult to grasp. Even the backgrounds in my digital works, if you notice, don’t have any angles, just faces.
Do you consider your sense of humor a talent?
My art is my way of expressing myself, and I try to do so in a way that feels natural—like speaking to friends or family. I find that enjoyable. I also try to transform this approach into my artworks, and it comes out very naturally, which is what makes my work unique. For example, I once created a drawing of Billie Eilish doing laundry—not with a specific message in mind, but to create art that carries a collective meaning, one that connects the East and the West.
Beirut by Tony Maalouf
Do you feel your cultural background has influenced your work?
Yes, I see my art reflecting Lebanon and its traditions. Growing up in the countryside has had a profound impact on me, from the biggest elements to the smallest details, like the way a Lebanese mother speaks to her children. I want our culture to be something that resonates with and is understood by others.
Were you always sure about this path?
I was never certain about this path; it happened by chance. I was simply in the right place at the right time. When I started working with major companies, I felt like a huge responsibility. I’ve worked with UNICEF and Greenpeace, and I was selected as one of the top five artists contributing to Arabic calligraphy by INESPO. It was a source of great pride. I was also thrilled to work with the Phoenicia Hotel, a historic landmark in Lebanon, and to create a video for BBC, which was really special.
What does your process look like?
I take a photo of the background and then draw the characters on top. I try to create a story around the images that seem faded, drawing the characters according to the dimensions of the photo. As I work, it feels like I’m giving new life to the image.
Who is your Diva?
Fairuz, because she brought together the diverse voices of Lebanon. She represents the common ground of Lebanon’s rich diversity.
