Art, culture victims of Lebanon's economic crisis
Lebanon’s cultural organizations, which have long been regional models, struggle to keep their heads above water as economic and political crises deepen.
BEIRUT — Since last October, prices of essential items in Lebanon have risen by nearly 50%, the minimum wage fell by 40%, unofficial capital controls have limited withdrawals and scores of businesses have closed.
For the arts and culture sector in Lebanon, this situation has been untenable, already entering the crisis with a precarious financial structure.
Art organizations in Lebanon largely receive money from foreign funds and embassies, philanthropy, community donations and local banks.
Amar Zahr, co-director of the Beirut Art Residency (BAR), an organization that teaches artists and hosts exhibitions, told Al-Monitor that a lot of funding "has dried up because of the circumstances.”
