Youssef Nassar: The Ladder Of Success

Youssef Nassar

Lebanese/Canadian Photographer Youssef Nassar nurtured his passion for photography and film as a Radio/TV student at Notre Dame University (NDU) in Lebanon, and, since then, he has climbed the ladder, making it to the international industry and representing Lebanon with his exquisite talent.

Dark and macabre themes resonate in Youssef's photographs. Recently his work in the music video industry has taken him on a journey alongside someone who he calls his idol,  the prog rock wonder Steven Wilson (a favorite of mine too!) He has definitely made a name for himself in the local arts scene, and now, as he paves his way on an international level, he is certainly a character to keep tabs on!

I had so many questions on my mind to ask Youssef as I've been a fan of his work for quite some time now; the dramatically touching themes and general vibe of his photographs are inspired by the music he listens to and are eye catching, to say the least.

Here is the exchange we had...

Lebanon: Enough Is Enough

Although today I was planning to post an interview with Lebanese photographer Youssef Nassar, I decided instead to refrain from doing so as, in light of the current situation, I feel it inappropriate and disrespectful to speak of anything other than the current crisis our country is facing.

Picture from yesterday's protest by Patrick Mouzawak taken from Facebook

RockRing: They're Back!

As I was once a metal/rock enthusiast, the news was music to my ears: RockRing is back! After a 3 and a half year hiatus, RockRing is back with its main pillars Roy Naufal, Maher Mardini, and Elie Salloum. Their comeback event, the 4th installment of Summer Fusion, will be hosted at Mocean (Kaslik) on August 28, 2015.

Summer Fusion is one of their signature events with previous installments in 2008, 2009, and 2010. This year 14 bands of various genres and styles will take to the stage for a concert that is, without question, the biggest platform for local bands. Aside from live musical performances, your ticket will grant you access to the pool and beach at Mocean, starting 11 AM and going on into the night.

I sat down with the guys for a very fun chat (which quickly turned into a chicken wings and fried pickles feast). Here's what they had to say...

Lara Zankoul: From An Idea To Reality

Lara Zankoul by Cathy Lê Thanh

It all started by leafing through fashion photos in magazines.

Then, at the age of 21, she started splitting her time between her corporate job and her love for photography.

Since then, Lara Zankoul has risen to become an iconic piece in the Lebanese photography scene.