BUSHRA FAKHOURY

SCULPTOR

The Mandrake was delighted to announce that Bushra Fakhoury, one of the UK’s most acclaimed sculptors, took on the role of Artist in Residence. Guests were able to watch, learn and converse with Bushra, whose stunning sculptures grace many of the hotel’s spaces, the Penthouse included, as she worked on her latest creation.

Bushra’s pieces can be found in private and public collections around the globe. She is probably best known, however, for her two contemporary sculptures that grace London’s Park Lane. On 5th October 2013 there arose Dunamis, an awe-inspiring nine-metre high sculpture of a strong man balancing an elephant with one hand. Rapturously received, the artwork also continues to raise awareness for the plight of the African elephant.

My themes and inspirations are mostly based on myths, fables, folklore, carnivals, parades and by observing, and studying people in their daily activities.

I was privileged to have lived in exotic countries, such as Ivory Coast, France, Kenya and Lebanon which had a great influence on my work.

I started sculpting at a very early age of 7 at the convent where I was taught to use marzipan to create flowers and animals.

From this point forward this fuelled my imagination and pushed my creativity to the limit, enabling me to concentrate on the form in its purest expression.

Bushra Fakhoury