Biography

Sannib – Norma Jeane No.5

Meet Sannib: A Contemporary British Artist with Middle Eastern Roots

Sannib is a British contemporary artist of Syrian-Lebanese heritage, currently living and working in London. His expressive works explore modern portraiture and abstract themes, often blending fine art with graphic design.

He began painting at just 10 years old, entirely self-taught in the early years. Over time, his artistic curiosity led him to pursue formal guidance and expand his technique.

Artistic Training and Early Influences

His first structured lessons in figurative and abstract painting were with Syrian artist Farid Georges, a graduate of the Academia di Belle Arti di Roma in Italy. This experience laid a strong foundation in classical and modern approaches. Later, he deepened his understanding of abstract composition and acrylic painting under Mard Issa, who studied at Kunstskolen i Bergen, Norway, and trained under the classical Norwegian painter Jan Sæther.

In addition to his painting journey, Sannib also studied graphic design. He graduated from the Syrian Design Center in Aleppo in 1997. As a result, he built a successful 18-year career in advertising and creative agencies across Kuwait, the UAE, and London. This commercial background added another dimension to his artistic expression.

Developing a Distinctive Mixed Media Style

Combining his design expertise with traditional painting, Sannib created a unique mixed media style that feels both modern and emotionally rich. He often blends graphic motifs, textures, and paint with vibrant colour palettes. Moreover, he uses layers of materials and finishes to achieve depth and movement within each piece.

Nature continues to inspire him deeply. He regularly draws his colours from the natural world—especially the golden hues of the earth and the serene blues of the sea and sky. Therefore, his work often carries a sense of grounded beauty and balance.

Symbolism in the Half-Face Portraits

The story behind the half face:
“Each person holds a hidden side,” says Sannib. By showing only half of a subject’s face, he highlights the duality within us all. The visible side represents the personality we reveal to the world, while the hidden side hints at the thoughts and feelings that remain private.”

Exhibitions and Ongoing Work

Over the years, Sannib has participated in numerous exhibitions across several countries, including Kuwait, Syria, and the UK. His collections continue to evolve, offering fresh perspectives and creative energy with every new body of work.

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