Biography

Sam Shehab is an artist, educator, researcher, and advocate of social culture, working primarily at the intersection of our environment and human behavior. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Sam Shehab's work explores the complexities of our relationship with nature and challenges societal norms. As an interdisciplinary designer with a background in architecture, Shehab blends creativity with technical precision to create innovative and thought-provoking designs. Shehab exhibited art and designs internationally, including documentaries at COP-27 in Sharm El-Shiekh, Egypt; St. Petersburg, Russia; Tehran Design Week in Iran; and Dubai Design Week in the UAE.

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Shehab has received all levels of grants and awards to support his creative research, including Virginia Commonwealth University student grants to carry out his SkinFace research, a Doha Firestation Artist residency to explore more of the artistic side of his research, a British Council grant for COP-27 in Egypt, and an environmental conference in Lebanon.

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His artwork explores the recent attention to skin manipulation. Sam juxtaposes the lines of cleavage, a topographical map on our skin, with Cairo's environment in Metamorphosis. He compares skin to culture and identity. Through his artwork, Shehab aims to challenge societal notions of beauty and provoke discussions about the impact of environmental changes on our identity. He uses various mediums, such as sculpture, photography, and digital art, to capture the intricate details of the human skin and its connection to the surrounding environment. By juxtaposing these elements, Shehab encourages viewers to reflect on the ever-changing nature of both our physical appearance and the world we inhabit. His thought-provoking pieces have gained recognition not only in Qatar but also internationally, solidifying his status as a prominent artist in the field.

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Drawing from Shehab's passion for people watching, his narratives represent his multicultural upbringing and the uncomfortable social interactions of everyday life. Since there is no single truth to a situation, Sam leaves viewers experiencing uncomfortable situations. These situations challenge societal norms and shed light on the complexity of human interactions. Through his art, Shehab aims to spark conversations about the diverse perspectives and experiences that exist within our global community. By creating discomfort, he encourages viewers to question their own biases and preconceived notions, leading to a deeper understanding of and empathy for others. In this way, Shehab's art serves as a catalyst for change and a reminder that there is often more to a situation than meets the eye.