Mina Image Centre is a breathing space for Lebanon, channeling the rage and the frustration that result from living in a state which operates outside the rule of law and the devastating consequences this has on society during extreme circumstances such as the ones Lebanon is currently undergoing; art engagé is its identity.

Mina Image Centre shut its doors as the lockdown compelled by the global pandemic forced its activities and those of the rest of the artistic and cultural community to temporarily come to a standstill.

Then, on 4th August 2020, Mina sustained considerable damage during the Beirut Port explosion which devastated the port area and its surrounding neighbourhoods. As well as the immediate impact on lives and livelihoods, the long term aftermath of the explosion on the social and cultural fabric of Beirut is enormous and will be felt for years to come. The adjoining areas of Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael were once considered the pulse of Beirut’s artistic and cultural scene, and the heritage buildings, homes and businesses in these hard-hit neighbourhoods are currently undergoing an arduous process of rebuilding and renovation.

Months after the explosion hit, Mina has decided to come back to life, not merely as an act of defiance against the perpetrators of the blast, but also to give back to a community and a neighbourhood that has contributed so much during the past few decades only to suffer so much loss after a year of economic collapse and criminal political negligence.

As well as seeking funds to help rebuild the physical space, Mina also puts forth a fresh and dynamic program of exhibits and events for the coming two years that will see it broadening its scope and outreach amongst institutional partners, artists and the broader public.

While Mina’s starting mission was to offer a space that celebrated the “image” and put the art of photography in the spotlight, from this day on Mina seeks to provide a platform for local artists deriving from all disciplines and backgrounds. While maintaining the concept of the “image” as central to its raison-d’être, all artistic disciplines will be showcased and celebrated, opening the space to a broad spectrum of local artists and members of the community. This disciplinary expansion could include performance arts, visual arts, motion image, music and more.

As before, the main space includes its multi-tiered exhibition rooms, open-plan projection halls and workshop spaces. Moreover, the first floor comprises space for offices and conference rooms that will be available for hire. Mina also hopes to expand by adjoining the services of a full photography lab, a bookshop and a coffee shop.