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 lived experience 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 and resisting the homogenizing pressures of contemporary culture. Her images are imbued with a palpable sense of place and time, capturing fleeting moments of beauty amidst hardship. Major Projects & Exhibitions: Mirza’s artistic trajectory has been marked by significant achievements recognized internationally. “Abandoned Rooms,” showcased at Jeux de la Francophonie and the Rencontres d’Arles, garnered considerable acclaim, establishing her reputation as a storyteller capable of confronting difficult subjects with grace and compassion. Her collaborative project "Parallel Universes," supported by AFAC, powerfully addressed social justice concerns through artistic expression—a testament to her commitment to using art as a tool for advocacy. Furthermore, she secured the Photo Folio Review 2023 prize at Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles in 2024 and participated in the summer exhibition. 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 understanding of power dynamics and contribute to her unwavering focus on confronting historical injustices—a stance rooted in a conviction that art holds the potential to catalyze social transformation. She actively engages with concepts of diaspora, trauma memory, and resistance – approaches that underscore the importance of acknowledging vulnerability and advocating for marginalized perspectives. Current Focus & Future Aspirations: Currently, Mirza continues to delve into themes of resilience and introspection through her ongoing projects, notably “Beirutopia,” which examines the city’s layered history and its enduring impact on individual experiences. She envisions a future where art serves as a catalyst for dialogue—a mission she pursues with unwavering dedication and artistic integrity, striving to amplify voices silenced by dominant narratives. Representation: Galerie Tanit Beirut/Munich