Karen Karam
Karen Karam, Lebanese, 28 years old. I studied psychology in Beirut, then moved to London to pursue fashion at Central Saint Martins, graduating with a first in class. During my year out, I did placements at Chloe, Galliano, and Mc Queen; and I am now starting my own label in womenswear and accessories, based in London.
Q & A
Most of the work featured in Rebirth Lebanon seems to have a spontaneous, reactionary feel in its expression. What prompted you to design this collection?
My work wasn't spontaneous. I actually did my collection when Beirut was at its peak. But I always felt that people tend to forget their past. So my collection was inspired by memories of the war as a child. You see no matter how disagreeable and hostile the real world might seem, with fantasy there is always the possibility of inventing a world of one's own, which in turn would help individuals to invent themselves. From that, my whole collection is based on the concept of memories, escapism, and creating a fantasy land.
What sort of reactions, positive and/or negative, did your work receive upon its first diffusion?
My work received a very positive reaction. I was the finale in the CSM press show and it got a lot of good reviews. It was a feel good collection. Because it was inspired by childhood memories of escapism; it was all girly and fun, so people could relate to it.
How do you view the role held by artistic expression in Lebanon, especially in relation to the current crisis?
I think the country is lacking. In Lebanon as we don't tend to give the same emphasis on being an artist as on being a doctor, thus all our artistic movement is being done from abroad. This has both its negative and positive sides. We are learning to expand our vision by being exposed to different cultures, yet we are losing a bit of our identity because we relate less and less to the people that are still living there.
What does "Rebirth Lebanon" mean to you?
Rebirth Lebanon means a lot to me. It is the rebirth of the new generation, the young one! Hopefully one that leaves all this hatred and fear behind. Rebirth of a new generation that is willing to make a change, to be more open minded and less sectarian, Rebirth Lebanon for me is hope in these dark days!
