Wajih Nahli

Wajih Nahlé (1932–2017) was a Lebanese painter, calligrapher, and sculptor renowned for his innovative fusion of traditional Arabic calligraphy with contemporary artistic expressions. Born in Beirut, he studied under the esteemed Lebanese painter Moustafa Farroukh, laying the foundation for a prolific career that spanned over six decades. Nahlé's work is characterized by a dynamic interplay of movement and color, often transforming Arabic letters into vibrant, abstract compositions that transcend linguistic boundaries.

Throughout his career, Nahlé participated in numerous prestigious exhibitions worldwide. Notably, he held solo exhibitions at Wally Findlay Galleries in Paris and New York in 1977, and his works were showcased at the Grand Palais in Paris during the Salon d'Automne in 1982. His art is part of esteemed collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Tunisia. In recognition of his contributions, Nahlé received several accolades, such as the Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters from both Lebanon in 1980 and France in 1994.

Nahlé's market presence is notable, with his artworks fetching significant sums at auctions. His piece "Untitled" achieved a record price of $12,732 at Bonhams New Bond Street in 2016. Over the years, his paintings have consistently attracted collectors, reflecting the enduring appeal and value of his artistic legacy.