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 shaped by the turbulent backdrop of Lebanon's civil war, influencing her sensitivity to trauma and resilience—themes that permeate much of her oeuvre. She pursued her artistic education in Beirut and subsequently honed her skills at Goldsmiths University of London, where she earned a Master’s degree specializing in photography and filmmaking. This early exposure instilled within her a profound understanding of how historical narratives shape individual consciousness and informs her artistic explorations. 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 favors analog processes alongside digital tools, prioritizing tactile engagement with materials and embracing the imperfections inherent in traditional techniques. This approach reflects her belief that beauty resides not only in technical precision but also in acknowledging the marks of time and human experience. Her work often incorporates found objects and archival documents, layering visual and textual elements to create immersive environments that invite contemplation. Major Projects & Exhibitions: Mirza’s artistic journey has been marked by significant achievements recognized internationally. Notably, “Abandoned Rooms” garnered acclaim from Jeux de la Francophonie and the Rencontres d’Arles, cementing her reputation as a compelling storyteller. Her collaborative project "Parallel Universes," supported by AFAC, further solidified her commitment to addressing social justice issues through artistic expression. Recent accolades include the Photo Folio Review 2023 prize at Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles and participation in the summer of 2024 exhibition. These projects demonstrate Mirza's dedication to confronting difficult subjects with compassion and intellectual rigor, utilizing her art as a tool for fostering dialogue and promoting social change. Influences & Conceptual Framework: Mirza draws inspiration from thinkers like Silvia Federici and Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, whose critiques of capitalism and colonialism inform her artistic vision. She actively engages with concepts of diaspora, trauma memory, and resistance—approaches that underscore the importance of confronting historical injustices and advocating for marginalized voices. Her work seeks to disrupt dominant narratives and reclaim silenced histories, challenging viewers to reconsider their assumptions about power and representation. Current Focus & Future Aspirations: Currently, Mirza continues to explore themes of vulnerability and resilience through her ongoing projects, particularly “Beirutopia,” which examines the city’s layered history 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. Her ambition is to create artworks that resonate deeply with audiences, prompting reflection and fostering empathy across cultural boundaries. Representation: Galerie Tanit Beirut/Munich