Rana Haddad, an AA graduate, acquired the title of an activist as she practiced architecture and design in the post war conflicting city of Beirut. Starting In 1997 her research workshop was setup with her practice with the aim of questioning the ability of objects and places to become means of political expression in Beirut. Soon after, these quests turned into installation works puncturing the city grabbing people’s attention locally and internationally.

With her students and colleagues, Rana Haddad has produced several public installations and performances in Beirut, Mantes la Jolie, Bern, Geneva, Algiers, Italy, New Zealand and lately got exhibited in the MAM, USA. She has lectured and given workshops in many art and architecture international institutions that includes Urbandrift, Berlin, the Geneva School of Fine Arts and Design, with Studio Kajima at ETH University, Zurich and most recently in Copenhagen, the Architectural Association, AA, London, University and UC Davis, USA. She is currently an assistant professor at the American University of Beirut.

In 2013, she co-founded 200Grs. The studio’s two founders are both drawn from Beirut’s constraints and the many challenges facing those who live in this complex city. In response, 200Grs works actively with local Lebanese artisans, to promote their craftsmanship and keep their knowledge and skills - which are at risk of disappearing - alive. Recently the Victoria and Albert Museum, V&A in London, UK; acquired from 200Grs. the Debris of text and Eyeglasses & the ‘Stuck Stick’ series.

 website credits : soraya hammoud | nicol yammin