Sam Johnson 
In a world where art meets functionality, The Candle Project stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of Lebanese design. Spearheaded by House of Today, this limited edition series is not just a collection of candles but a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and culture. The project marks a significant milestone as HoT's first curated and edited collection, entirely made in Lebanon, in collaboration with ten exceptionally talented Lebanese designers.
House of Today: Cultivating the Lebanese Design Ecosystem
Founded by Cherine Magrabi Tayeb, House of Today has been a linchpin in nurturing the Lebanese design landscape. Since its inception in 2012, HoT has been unwavering in its mission to foster the design ecosystem, starting with the artisans themselves. It has become a hub for mentoring designers, curating collections, and providing a platform for global exposure.
The Collaboration with Beit Chabeb Workshop
At the heart of The Candle Project is the collaboration with the Centre Hospitalier Beit Chabeb Workshop. This partnership is more than a mere production agreement; it is a melding of minds and skills. The designers worked alongside the artisans, transforming wax into sculptures that are both intricate and evocative.
Roukoz Moussallem: A Story of Resilience and Artistry
Leading the candle production process is Mr. Roukoz Moussallem. Confined to a wheelchair, his journey is one of resilience and determination. At Beit Chabeb, Moussallem discovered a new purpose in life through his craft, transcending physical limitations to create stunning, sculptural candles.
The Designers: A Blend of Renowned and Emerging Talent
The ten Lebanese designers involved in this project are a mix of internationally recognized figures and emerging talents. Each brings a unique perspective and artistic practice to their creations. The designers include Nada Debs, Carla Baz, Richard Yasmine, 200Grs, Aline Asmar d’Amman, david/nicolas, Flavie Audi, Sayar & Garibeh, LimbObject, and Tamara Barrage. Their work in The Candle Project is their first venture using wax as a primary medium, demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of these artists.
Innovative Creations: A Closer Look at the Artisans and Their Work
- Richard Yasmine's "Sinking Sun for Another One" Yasmine's creation stands out as a symbol of hope and renewal. It portrays the concept that every sunset is not an end but a promise of a new beginning. This candle, with its intricate design, invites us to reflect on life's cyclical nature and the beauty in transformation.
- Aline Asmar d’Amman's "Aspiration" Inspired by the iconic Lady of Lebanon statue in Harissa, this candle is a homage to the nation's resilience and eternal hope. It’s not just a candle but a cultural icon, representing the spirit of Lebanon – proud, enduring, and ever hopeful.
- Tamara Barrage's "Silhouettes" Barrage brings to life a unique form through her instinctive design process. The candle, resembling a hand-drawn sketch, reflects the spontaneous and intuitive nature of the creation.
- Flavie Audi's "Nothing is Forever" Audi's piece is a poignant reminder of the transience of all things. It symbolizes the impermanence of even the most solid entities, encouraging a deeper connection with nature and the cosmos.
- Carla Baz's "Chrysalis" Pushing the boundaries of wax as a medium, Baz's creation transforms from a candle to a vase, representing sustainability and the beauty in repurposing.
- david/nicolas' "STRAT" This candle captures the essence of Lebanese landscapes and architecture, illustrating the stark contrasts of the country's natural and built environments.
- Nada Debs' "Spiritual Sphere" Originally a meditation tool, this candle translates spirituality into a tangible form, offering a mesmerizing experience as it reflects light across its unique texture.
- 200 Grs' "Blrrrrr" This creation elevates the mundane, symbolizing transformation and the liberation of thought, encouraging the mind to explore new realms of imagination.
- LimbObject's "I am Here" A human-inspired sculpture that speaks to the intimate experience of transformation, offering comfort and a sense of presence in times of need.
- Sayar & Gharibeh's "Flaws" This candle celebrates the beauty in imperfection, encouraging self-love and acceptance, challenging societal norms about beauty and form.
The Intricate Journey of The Candle Project
Each designer navigated a seven-step process to bring their vision to life. This journey from sketch to sculpture involved meticulous planning and execution, embodying the dedication and skill inherent in Lebanese artisanship.
Philanthropic Efforts and Support for Local Crafts
The proceeds from The Candle Project will be directed towards supporting Beit Chabeb and its initiatives, the ten designers, and House of Today’s mentorship programs. This initiative not only showcases local talent but also contributes to sustaining and elevating Lebanon’s rich heritage of craftsmanship.
A Reflection of Lebanon’s Cultural and Economic Resilience
The Candle Project commenced amid one of the worst economic crises in Lebanon. This context adds layers of meaning to the project, highlighting not just the beauty of the candles but also the perseverance of the Lebanese people and their undying spirit.
Designers’ Perspectives: Melding Art with Functionality
Each designer brought their unique viewpoint to the project. For instance, Nada Debs saw it as an opportunity to add a spiritual dimension to her work, while Richard Yasmine viewed it as a chance to explore themes of regeneration and hope.
About Centre Hospitalier Beit Chabeb
Not just a workshop, Beit Chabeb is a space where individuals with disabilities find new meanings and opportunities in life. It is renowned for its unique and popular artisanal workshops, considered to be among the best in the region.
House of Today: A Global Platform for Lebanese Designers
House of Today continues to be a pivotal force in promoting Lebanese design globally. Its focus on nurturing creativity, mentoring emerging talent, and curating exceptional collections has solidified its position as a leader in the global design community.
The Candle Project by House of Today is more than a collection of candles; it is a beacon of artistry, collaboration, and cultural pride. Through this project, House of Today reaffirms its commitment to the Lebanese design ecosystem, showcasing the talents of local designers and artisans, and promoting Lebanon's rich heritage on the global stage.
