Lara Zankoul, a multidisciplinary artist and conceptual Lebanese photographer, is reshaping how we perceive reality through her visually striking and deeply symbolic work. Known for her ability to create engaging pieces which blur the boundaries between reality and imagination, Zankoul’s art creates immersive narratives that challenge perceptions and evoke introspection. In her own words, she defines herself as “an artist and storyteller”, saying, “My work often blends surrealism and reality, creating spaces where the seen and unseen meet.”

With an academic background in economics, Zankoul’s artistic journey has been a testament to following one’s intuition. Photography became her medium of choice, enabling her to channel her creativity into thought-provoking visuals. This unconventional path reflects her ability to embrace and thrive in dualities, a recurring theme in her portfolio.

Central to Zankoul’s artistry is her infatuation with water, a recurring element in her most notable series. For Zankoul, water represents more than a physical medium; it is a metaphor for the subconscious. “It’s fluid, reflective, and often conceals more than it reveals. It allows me to explore themes of duality and hidden emotions,” she shares.

In her series, The Unseen, water becomes both a literal and figurative divide, unveiling the juxtaposition between surface appearances and hidden depths. This innovative use of water adds a layer of complexity to her storytelling, drawing viewers into a world that feels simultaneously familiar and otherworldly.

Zankoul’s latest project, Dividing Line, epitomizes her fascination with contrasts and boundaries. The centerpiece of this series — a mermaid confined within a tank — captures the tension between freedom and captivity, the “tension between freedom and captivity, the internal and the external.” The striking images provoke questions about the nature of freedom, as Zankoul explains: “It represents the invisible lines that divide us — whether it’s between societal roles, personal aspirations, or how we perceive others.”

By presenting such a vivid and symbolic narrative, Dividing Line invites viewers to explore their interpretations of confinement and liberation. Is freedom merely physical, or does it extend into emotional and mental realms? These are the kinds of questions Zankoul’s work consistently raises, creating an open dialogue between her art and its audience.

Zankoul’s artistry is as much about the process as the final image. “I feel happiest when I’m immersed in the creative process — whether that’s brainstorming new ideas, building intricate sets, or capturing a moment through my lens,” she reflects. Her attention to detail and dedication to set design underscore her commitment to bringing her visions to life. Each photograph is meticulously crafted, from the conceptual stage to the physical execution. Her use of props, lighting, and often water, adds depth to her narratives, bridging the gap between imagination and reality.

Zankoul’s artistic evolution continues as she delves into new themes in her upcoming photo series. “I’m currently exploring themes of femininity and vulnerability. It delves into the cycles of creation and the deeply personal and collective experiences tied to these ideas,” she reveals.

This shift toward introspection and collective experiences marks an exciting phase in Zankoul’s career. By addressing universal yet deeply personal themes, she creates art that resonates on a broader scale, inviting empathy and shared understanding.

Zankoul’s art is particularly poignant in the context of the digital age, where visuals dominate communication and expression. Her ability to craft images that transcend mere aesthetics and delve into psychological and philosophical realms sets her apart as an artist who not only captures the eye but also engages the mind.

For an audience deeply immersed in technology and digital culture, Zankoul’s work offers a refreshing exploration of human emotion and the subconscious. Her pieces serve as a reminder that even in a world increasingly defined by screens and algorithms, the human experience remains complex, layered, and worth exploring.

Lara Zankoul’s art is a testament to the power of storytelling through visuals. From her use of water as a metaphor for the subconscious to her exploration of boundaries in Dividing Line, she continues to create thought-provoking pieces. As she ventures into themes of femininity and vulnerability, Zankoul remains an artist to watch — a creator whose work bridges the tangible and the surreal, inviting viewers to explore the depths of their perceptions.