Serving an Intersection of Cultures on a Virtual Tennis Court
Chafic Mekawi
Chafic Mekawi by Noor Hotait
Chafic Mekawi is a Canadian-Lebanese artist who has garnered global attention for his striking visual narratives blending abstraction and realism. Drawing inspiration from his Lebanese heritage and multicultural background, Mekawi’s work explores themes of identity and cultural intersections, expressing complex emotions and ideas. His creative dialogue caught the attention of DIVAZ curators, prompting our Managing Editor to join him for an insightful chat.
Talk to us about your background. How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity, not just as an artist but as a person?
I am a Canadian-Lebanese architect by background and a designer and digital artist by practice. Growing up in Dubai and Beirut played a major role in shaping my creative identity.
Why did you pick this unique path? What influences shaped your aesthetic?
My exploration of digital art and AI began during a transitional phase in my life—starting my master's at Oxford and working in a job lacking creative expression; art became an outlet. I’ve always been curious about how technology pushes creative boundaries. AI feels like a collaborator, suggesting unexpected combinations or solving complex design challenges. This exploration fascinates me and informs my unique style.
Does your work reflect your cultural heritage? If so, how?
In some ways, yes. Culture is complex and dynamic, encompassing language, food and places. My work draws from my Middle Eastern background and elements I grew up with, while challenging traditional notions. For example, my “Carpet Court” series reimagines the design of tennis courts by incorporating eastern craftsmanship. It stemmed from pondering, “How can I challenge traditional designs and infuse my culture into them?”
AI Carpet Court, Chafic Mekawi
Can you walk us through a day in your creative process?
Every piece starts with a question: “What would happen if I merge tennis with eastern craftsmanship?” or “How can Arab nostalgia be visually reflected?” My process is research and curiosity-driven. Sometimes, I enter not knowing the end result. Other times, art helps me process emotions— anger, sadness or joy. I channel these feelings into my work. My tools include sketching, photography, editing software and AI algorithms. The timeline varies; a piece may take a week or a year, depending on when it feels complete.
Who is your Diva?
At the moment, it’s Fairuz. Isn’t she every Arab’s diva? (laughs) Creatively, Ezequiel Pini, aka Six N. Five, inspires me deeply. His digital art influences my exploration of form and material. Visionaries like Harry Nuriev and Mous Lamrabat, Etel Adnan’s legacy, Nouri Flayhan’s illustrations and Sumaya Valley’s architectural research also inspire my work.
Window to the Sea, Chafic Mekawi
