Sursock Museum Reopens with Exhibition Tracing Six Decades of Rupture

The Sursock Museum in Beirut is showcasing 'Beyond Ruptures, A Tentative Chronology,' an exhibition that explores three interconnected timelines: the museum's history, its exhibitions, and Lebanon's socio-political changes. Utilizing archival documents and records of restoration efforts, the exhibition highlights six significant disruptions during the museum's 62 years, including a legal dispute (1952–1961) regarding the transformation of Nicolas Ibrahim Sursock's home into a museum, culminating with the Beirut Port explosion on August 4, 2020. Featuring works from Aref el Rayess, Jean Khalife, Samir Khaddaje, and others, the exhibition symbolizes cultural resilience. Curated by Karina El Helou, with design by Jacques Aboukhaled and Mind the gap, it includes text by Gregory Buchakjian. The museum is set to reopen in May 2023 for the fourth time since 1961.