Mohamad Hafez Studio — Attraction in New Haven

Today there are several contemporary artists using their artistic talents to help bring attention to the immigration debate. The independent school that I teach at decided to address these issues by inviting one such artist, award-winning artist and architect, Mohamad Hafez, a native-born Syrian, raised in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to oversee a term-long found object sculpture project with my art students. Drawing from his own life experiences, Hafez has become a leading voice for refugees from around the globe. His message is crucial for our current times since he helps us to celebrate our differences, and find our shared commonality. He is a gifted artist, an extraordinary teacher, an inspirational colleague, and a talented craftsman. Leading up to our project, my students and I had the opportunity to visit with Mohamad in his studio in New Haven, an experience that was informative, inspiring and energizing for all. In short: the world is a better place because...

I first came across Mohamad Hafez several years Ago at New Haven Open Studios. His work stod out among the hundreds of Artists and I knew right away that here was a special talent. His miniature buildings are so meticulously done and the effect is quite profound. There is a certain beauty in the partially destroyed and abandoned buildings and you get a glimpse into a different time and place - something beautiful and peaceful but lost forever. It moved me very much and I would encourage anyone to go see his exhibits if given the chance, because seeing his work on-line doesn’t...

Mohamad is a very thoughtful and diligent artist who uses his expertise and attention to detail to put a magnifying glass on the experiences and beauty of the Syrian people as well as how war has left their beautifiul culture and way of life in ruins. Mohamad's art is both captivating and heartbreaking. I highly recommend seeing...