Kamel Lazaar Foundation Bridges Tunisian Art with Middle East

Established in 2005 by Kamel Lazaar, the Kamel Lazaar Foundation has been active in Tunisia since 2014, fostering connections between the Tunisian art community and the broader North African and Middle Eastern regions while also focusing on heritage preservation. Lina Lazaar became vice president in 2016. The foundation was responsible for curating the Tunisia Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in 2017 and has partnered with institutions such as MoMA, Tate Modern, and IMA Paris, in addition to restoring historic sites in Tunis. Its collection boasts nearly 1,300 pieces from over 21 nations, featuring notable artists like Mounir Fatmi and Mona Hatoum. Lina Lazaar initiated Jeddah Art Week in 2013, and the foundation aids emerging artists through open calls, addressing cultural sector challenges amid ongoing political instability since Ben Ali's regime, with women experiencing advancements since 1956.