Artbooth Gallery is pleased to present Beams of light, a solo exhibition showcasing the works of esteemed Lebanese-Brazilian artist Habuba Farah. Running from April 10 to May 25, 2025, at Artbooth Gallery Abu Dhabi, this exhibition delves into the artist’s profound exploration of colour, geometry, and movement, tracing her artistic evolution over more than seven decades.

Born in 1931 in Getulina, São Paulo, to Lebanese immigrant parents, Habuba Farah developed an early passion for art. The vibrant mix of textures, shapes, and colours she encountered in her family's shop was a constant source of inspiration. "I started drawing before I even learned to read and write," she recalls. "As a child, I created abstract geometric designs spontaneously, without knowing about artistic movements."

Initially pursuing a career as a geography teacher, Farah's dedication to art led her to study under prominent artists Samson Flexor and Mário Zanini in the 1950s. These formative experiences solidified her commitment to abstract art, particularly Lyrical Geometric Abstraction, where she masterfully blends rhythm and harmony, transforming form and colour into dynamic expressions of light and space.

The exhibition features a curated selection of Farah’s works from the 1970s to the present, encompassing mediums such as oil on canvas, gouache on paper, and intricate pencil drawings. A highlight of the exhibition is her exploration of 'neutral gray' or coloured gray—a concept achieved by blending primary colours with their complementary counterparts. This meticulous process results in geometric compositions that often resemble beams of light, inviting viewers to experience the subtle interplay of tones and contrasts.

Despite facing health challenges, Habuba Farah remains deeply devoted to her practice. "For me, art is life! At 94 years old, I still work every day. My body may be fragile, but my mind is a whirlwind. I continue to create and reinvent myself, using collages and drawings as new ways to express my vision."

Having the opportunity to present her work to the Arab community for the first time in a solo exhibition holds profound personal significance. "This exhibition is a reconnection with my roots, a tribute to the culture of my parents, which shaped me and my siblings. Although I cannot travel to Abu Dhabi, I am honoured to share my work with its community."

Throughout her illustrious career, Farah has participated in numerous exhibitions in Brazil and internationally. Her works have been showcased at esteemed institutions such as the Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand (MASP) and are part of prestigious collections, including the Guggenheim Museum Abu Dhabi and the Barjeel Art Foundation. Her artistic journey has been enriched by collaborations and correspondences with notable figures like Victor Vasarely, reflecting a continuous exchange of ideas and artistic dialogue.

At over 90 years old, Habuba Farah remains an active and influential figure in contemporary abstraction. Her recent exhibitions, including a solo show at Gomide & Co. gallery in São Paulo from November 2023 to February 2024, have garnered critical acclaim, highlighting her enduring relevance and innovative spirit. Beams of light offers audiences a unique opportunity to engage with Farah's artistic vision and the delicate balance she achieves between movement and stillness, light and shadow, order and fluidity.