AUT is proud to announce that three students of its graphic design department are now showcasing their work
online at the ArtVenture International Gallery after winning the top three spots in the junior drawing competition
during the AUT Art Symposium 2024!
Kickstarting the summer of 2024, ArtVenture, in collaboration with the American University Of Technology
(AUT) and Guruhive, made history by hosting Lebanon’s first-ever Therapeutic Art Master Class and
successfully holding an Art Competition to scout fresh talents from the Lebanese youth.
The groundbreaking masterclass aimed to immerse participants in the therapeutic benefits of creativity and
artistic expression. Guided by Ance Gricmane, a renowned Latvian artist, and certified coach, attendees
explored various art practices, uncovering the transformative power of self-expression, stress relief, and
emotional healing.
On the other hand, the art competition brought together a vibrant mix of emerging and established junior
artists, showcasing their creativity and talent. The distinguished jury panel, consisting of Lara J Trad, Founder
of ArtVenture Gallery; Ance Gricmane, International Artist and Therapeutic Art Coach; and renowned
Lebanese artist Zeina Sultan, meticulously evaluated the artworks based on creativity, originality, technique,
and adherence to the competition theme. AUT is delighted to announce that the top three winners were all
from the American University of Technology, and their respective online portfolios can be viewed below:
AUT is also pleased to state that their Alumna Lara J. Trad, a talented International Award-Winning Lebanese
artist, has captured the attention of the international art community with her distinctive artworks. She is a multi-
talented artist skilled in oil painting, digital art, and photography. Her distinctive style, deeply entrenched in
surrealism, explores the complexities of human anatomy through her paintings. In her photography, she
employs techniques such as multiple exposures, long exposure, and zooming to create striking and evocative
images that complement her surrealistic vision. The seamless blend of fluid shapes and vibrant colors in her
creations forms a visual symphony, deeply connecting with audiences on an emotional level.
Three years ago, Lara left Lebanon to pursue international recognition. Despite numerous obstacles, she has
managed to make a name for herself and gain recognition to showcase her work in prestigious exhibitions
across Italy, Spain, the USA, Georgia, Lebanon, Canada, and Hungary.
Knowing that only a small percentage of truly talented artists can reveal their potential on the international
scene, Lara established ArtVenture International Fine Art Gallery, an innovative space allowing artists of all
levels to showcase their work internationally without needing representation by a traditional gallery or curator.
Through ArtVenture International Fine Art Gallery, Lara J. Trad continues to redefine the role of art in society.
By pioneering initiatives like the Therapeutic Art Master Class, she fosters artistic expression, personal well-
being, and growth.
