Joey El Haddad, born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1999, now lives and works in London. Joey is studying for an MA in Painting at the Royal College of Art (2023–2024). He received a distinction in the graduate diploma from the Royal College of Art in 2022 and the bachelor’s degree in business management from Lebanese American University in 2021.

In Joey Haddad’s painting practice, he explores the interplay between figuration and abstraction. He weaves together fragmented symbols, cultural motifs, and cyphers to construct a harsh and unfamiliar territory. Within this landscape, a mysterious and dreamlike spatial continuum emerges, referencing his personal experiences and memories, particularly those related to conflict, and enveloping the viewer in a realm representing the challenges of contemporary conflicts where feelings of threat, longing, fragility, and escapism intertwine. He aims to evoke a sense of depth and introspection, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the layered narratives that capture the urgency and complexity of our times.

Recent group exhibitions: MA Graduation Show, Royal College of Art, London, 2024; Fragments, Projects Kavel Rafferty, Margate, 2024; Fall Protection only, The Upper Gulbenkian Gallery, London, 2023; Mise-en-scène, safehouse 2, London, 2023; Cast a shadow, safehouse 1 & 2, London, 2022.