Besher Koushaji Syrian , b. 1984

Besher Koushaji is a Syrian contemporary artist whose work delves into themes of memory, nostalgia, and the longing for a lost home. His paintings predominantly feature portraits of women engaged in everyday moments, yet these scenes are fragmented by intersecting lines and sections, creating a sense of distortion.

The women in his portraits symbolize loved ones from Syria, while the geometric divisions incorporate architectural elements from his homeland. By altering the original figures, Koushaji reflects on cherished memories, exploring the delicate balance between remembrance and transformation. His work captures nostalgia through a deeply expressive and sensitive approach.

Koushaji’s background in graphic design is evident in his compositions, alongside cultural influences such as classical Arabic calligraphy and arabesque patterns, which seamlessly blend into his contemporary artistic style.

He holds an M.A. in Fine Arts and Visual Communication from Damascus University and is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in Cubism at the same institution. His work has been featured in international art fairs, including the Beirut Art Fair (2021), Intersect 21 Art Fair in Chicago (2021), Intersect Aspen (2020), and the Egypt International Art Fair (2020).

Notable solo and group exhibitions include Painting the Figure at Rosenfeld Gallery, London (2021); Shenzhen Biennial, China (2021); Scene at Wadi Finan Art Gallery, Amman (2019); Art on 56th Gallery, Beirut (2019); and Kalemat Sanat Gallery, Istanbul (2018).