Remaking the City

Randa Mirza: Exploring Memory and Displacement Through Visual Narrative

Randa Mirza, born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1978, is a Lebanese visual artist whose work delves into profound themes of identity, memory, and displacement—experiences deeply rooted in her personal history as an artist navigating the complexities of life abroad. Her artistic practice transcends mere representation; it’s a deliberate interrogation of societal structures and perspectives, fueled by feminist and decolonial sensibilities. Based primarily in Paris, France, Mirza collaborates with ‘La Generale en Manufacture,’ an influential art collective dedicated to fostering creative dialogue and challenging conventional artistic boundaries. Early Life & Education: Mirza’s formative years were profoundly impacted by the turbulent backdrop of Lebanon's civil war, shaping her sensitivity to trauma and resilience—themes that permeate much of her oeuvre. She began her artistic journey in Beirut, immersing herself in its vibrant cultural landscape and honing her skills at Goldsmiths University of London, where she earned a Master’s degree specializing in photography and filmmaking. This dual grounding – Beirut's history of conflict alongside academic rigor – informs the core of her artistic vision. Artistic Style & Techniques: Mirza’s distinctive style is characterized by meticulous observation and experimentation with diverse mediums—photography, video installation, and performance art—each serving as a conduit for exploring nuanced narratives. She champions analog processes alongside digital tools, prioritizing tactile engagement with materials and embracing the inherent imperfections that enrich traditional techniques. This deliberate choice reflects her belief in honoring craftmanship while simultaneously questioning established visual languages. Her images are imbued with a palpable sense of atmosphere, capturing fleeting moments and confronting uncomfortable truths with unflinching honesty. Major Projects & Exhibitions: Mirza’s artistic trajectory has been marked by significant achievements recognized internationally. “Abandoned Rooms,” awarded the 5th Jeux de la Francophonie Prize in 2005 and the No Limit prize at the Rencontres d’Arles in 2006, cemented her reputation as a compelling storyteller—a narrative driven by confronting silence and uncovering hidden histories. Her collaborative project “Parallel Universes,” supported by AFAC, powerfully addressed social justice issues through artistic expression, demonstrating her commitment to using art as a tool for advocacy and dialogue. Furthermore, she secured the Photo Folio Review 2023 prize at Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles in 2024, showcasing her work alongside fellow artists in a prestigious Parisian institution. Influences & Conceptual Framework: Mirza draws inspiration from thinkers like Silvia Federici and Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, whose critiques of capitalism and colonialism resonate deeply within her artistic explorations. These voices guide her consideration of diaspora, trauma memory, and resistance—approaches that underscore the importance of confronting historical injustices and amplifying marginalized perspectives. She seeks to disrupt dominant narratives and foster empathy for experiences outside the mainstream, recognizing art’s capacity to provoke critical reflection. Current Focus & Future Aspirations: Currently, Mirza continues to delve into themes of vulnerability and resilience through her ongoing projects, particularly “Beirutopia,” which examines the city's layered history—its scars of war alongside its enduring spirit of creativity—and its impact on individual experiences. She envisions a future where art serves as a catalyst for social transformation—a mission she pursues with unwavering dedication and artistic integrity, striving to create images that illuminate forgotten stories and inspire meaningful conversations about our shared humanity. Representation: Galerie Tanit Beirut/Munich