We had the good fortune of connecting with Nour Jarmakani and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nour, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea of Belvedere Art Space came as a very natural transition for my partner and I who both studied Interior Design and Architecture and are art collectors as well. For us, art was always the true passion and the artwork selection and advising for our clients at the end of any project was always the best part. Having lived in many countries and travelled to many countries, I was collecting art and meeting artists for years. So when I moved back home to Beirut after being in Lagos, Nigeria for 10 years, I decided to continue my education with Sotheby’s in the UK to gain Art History and the Gallery business knowledge and opened our gallery in 2018.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
For me, what sets us apart are several things.

First, when we started this business our biggest goal was not only to bring international Contemporary art that I loved to the region, the bigger vision was always to make the gallery approachable for young collectors just beginning their journey. We wanted to break the barrier and idea that a gallery is an intimidating space and make it a welcoming space.

Our journey was a difficult one. It was filled with obstacles. Choosing to be in this region of the world makes you vulnerable to factors that are out of your control. Being in Lebanon was no exception. Our gallery opened In December 2018 and the country started a revolution In October 2019. we had political unrest, an economic crisis (One of the worst in history And still ongoing to date), and it culminated in the Beirut port blast on August 4, 2020. Our gallery was Very close to the blast and was completely damaged. Artwork was damaged, employees injured and we suffered the loss of my partners husband. So we were at a major crossroads not knowing what to do next. The only reason we are still standing is our Perseverance, passion and the belief we have in our brand and our artists. We made the decision to relocate to Dubai and are slowly rebuilding in a very promising new place with a lot of positive ventures in the pipeline.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Last year., I would’ve told you about Beautiful Beirut. Today, I would tell you about our new home Dubai.

Firstly I would invite you to visit out gallery in one of Dubai’s most prestigious areas names DIFC ( Dubai International Financial Center) the ares is filled with beautiful galleries, restaurants and shops.

Second would be to pay a visit to the Nearby recently opened Museum of the future which is filled with excitement and new ideas For the future.

Third would be a visit to one of Dubai’s beautiful beach resorts on the Palm. Waldorf Astoria or the Atlantis beach and water park is always fun.

Fourth is another beautiful beach names Kite Beach for an amazing day and delicious burgers from SALT

Fifth would be an afternoon spent at Al Serkal Avenue to see the great galleries and trendy coffee shops.

Last I would suggest a 40 min drive to the emirate of Abu Dhabi to visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
So many shoutouts! First to my mom for raising me to believe in myself and my power and always believing and knowing that following my passion is essential to feeling alive.

To my husband who gave me strength and pushed me through the most difficult times.

To my partner Aal who dared to dream with me for so many years until we accomplished our dream.

To my children who keep me motivated every single day to keep on doing what I’m doing

Website: Www.belvedereartspace.com

Instagram: @belvedereartspace.com

Facebook: Belvedere Art Space

Image Credits
Photos are courtesy of Belvedere Art Space

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.