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Bahraini graphic designer and illustrator Reem Al-Hajri has joined artists from around the globe in their fundraising efforts to support Lebanon by creating colourful commissioned pieces for every donation made, writes Mai Al-Khatib-Camille.
The 33-year-old, who is no stranger to supporting countries in crisis having raised funds for Australia through her work after its tragic bushfires, is back in action and this time she is offering up her artistic services.
“I was inspired by @artrelief4beirut on Instagram asking artists to share their physical work to raise funds for Beirut,” explained Reem who has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design and fashion as well as a Master of Arts degree in fashion design. “I wanted to support Lebanon as much as possible so I decided to offer a custom digital illustration for every donation made to the Lebanese Red Cross @lebaneseredcross, Impact Lebanon @impact.lebanon and Children’s Cancer Centre of Lebanon @ccclebanon, throughout the whole month of August.
“If someone would like an illustration, please give what you can to help Lebanon and share the receipt with me. I would be more than happy to illustrate for anyone donating any amount they can. Every little bit of support counts.”
Reem rushed to join the art for a cause campaign after a major explosion occurred on August 4 at a port warehouse in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, featuring more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate.
It resulted in at least 220 deaths, 7,000 injuries and around $15 billion in property damage. It also left an estimated 300,000 people homeless.
“I really wanted to be able to help the charities in Beirut during their time of need and to encourage more people to directly donate to them,” she added. “I will draw the digital illustrations and share it with the donator to print and frame.
“If you are an artist, please consider donating your work and some of your time if you can to help raise funds for Lebanon. You can do this on your own, in your own online space or you can contact @artrelief4beirut and they will share your art with a wider audience to raise donations.”
Reem has also joined @middleeastarchive on Instagram which is a directory for rebuilding the arts and culture sector in Beirut. The compilation also includes creative projects outside Lebanon that aid relief efforts via credible NGOs as well as artistic initiatives that support the work of Beirut-based artists, studios and galleries.
Reem can be reached on Instagram @rebelreasonrhyme.art or by emailing reemalhajri.design@gmail.com.
