Bitar transfers wood into artworks that tell the Syrian civilization

The Damascene wooden mosaic is one of the oldest and most distinguished traditional handicrafts in Syria. The roots of this handicraft extend back to the sixteen century and it has passed down through generations.

With a charming artistic touch, Raouf Hanna Bitar from Lattakia province has spent 15 years among the woods which he gets  from different types of trees to make mosaic distinguished paintings that tell the story of the Syrian heritage  as well as the  deep-rooted civilization in its different shapes.

 Bitar, who spends several hours daily in his small workshop in Lattakia, told SANA correspondent that he chose wood to carry out his artistic works and make mosaic paintings based on what researchers and archaeologists have documented showing the ancient Syrian civilization and its roots in history.

Bitar made it clear that he consumed thousands of pieces of wood in the embodiment of figures, dating back to the fourteenth century BC and who had important roles in the history of the Levant. He pointed out that his love for wood prompted him to study its characteristics and know the most suitable types for his works including olives, apples, apricots, walnuts and berries.

The painting go through many stages  before coming to light, which the artist Bitar summarized as: identifying  the idea and the quality of the wood that fits the painting, sorting out the wood pieces and then painting.

“Patience, calm, accuracy and clarity of mind are most needed to complete the work of art” according to Bitar.

 It is noteworthy to say  that Bitar began his artistic career 15 years ago. He participated in many local exhibitions and completed some paintings of the Latin Church in Latakia. His works reached  Egypt and a number of countries in Europe.

Rawaa Ghanam