Maaloula 1963

Louay Kayyali made this painting, “Maaloula,” using oils on canvas. The painting’s most striking element is its texture. Look closely, and you’ll notice how the brushstrokes build up a palpable surface. In areas like the sky and mountains, Kayyali applies the paint with a dry brush, creating a granular effect. This not only mimics the rough texture of the landscape itself, but also reflects the labor involved in the painting’s creation. The color scheme also speaks volumes. The muted blues and grays create a somber atmosphere, perhaps indicative of the social and political climate of the time. The repetitive strokes might also represent the monotony and hardship faced by working-class people in the region. By emphasizing the materiality and process behind “Maaloula,” we can appreciate how it transcends mere representation, becoming a powerful statement about place, labor, and the human condition.