Zaza & Philippe Jabre celebrated for their role in the cultural, social and economic development of Lebanon at an exclusive event in Beirut.
The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage award has been celebrated for the first time in Lebanon, recognising Zaza and Philippe Jabre for their endless support towards the development of arts in the region. Now in its 27th year, the visionary Arts Patronage Awards celebrate the work and contributions of modern day art patrons around the world. Only the second recipients to receive the award from the Middle East region, the Jabres have been honoured for their work across The Philippe Jabre Association for youth assistance; their support of the MAXXI exhibition, Beirut Home; provision of space for Ashkal Alwan, the Lebanese Association for Plastic Arts; as well as their contribution to the development of the country.
The 2018 recipients were honoured at a ceremony on the 3rd May at Ashkal Alwan, a multipurpose facility in Beirut dedicated to contemporary artistic practices, research, production and education. Guests included prominent figures from the art world, Montblanc’s long-time distribution partner, the Tamer Group, and regional media who were hosted by Franck Juhel, President of Montblanc Middle East, India and Africa, along with Montblanc Cultural Foundation Chairmen Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath.
During the award ceremony, Montblanc unveiled its new Patron of Art Limited Edition writing instrument paying homage to Ludwig II of Bavaria, a lover of art history, architecture and music, and one of the greatest patrons of the 19th century. Till Fellrath and Sam Bardaouil presented the Jabres with a unique Patron of Art Homage to Ludwig II Limited Edition with personalized nib, encased inside an angel wing trophy, in addition to a prize of 15,000 Euros to benefit a cultural project of their choice, the Philippe Jabre Association for youth assistance.
“The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award really celebrates the spirit of patronage – those people who often work behind the scenes supporting young artists and giving them a chance to learn, grow and achieve their full potential,” said Sam Bardaouil, Montblanc de la Culture Foundation chairman. “It is because of passionate individuals such as Philippe and Zaza that these artists are able to give back to society through their art, and it is a great honour to award them with the Montblanc Arts Patronage Award.”
The Jabres are among 17 winners around the world selected by an international jury of art experts and practitioners, brought together by the Montblanc Cultural Foundation. Candidates are evaluated on their history of personal commitment to the arts, and enabling wider access to cultural projects.
“We are sincerely grateful to receive this prestigious award from the Montblanc de la Culture Foundation, for the work we love and which benefits a region we believe has so much potential. Through the Philippe Jabre Association, we’ve been able to grant aid to several educational and cultural institutions and we look forward to continuing this development across the region. We hope this award inspires fellow patrons around the world to join in support of the arts.”
In receiving the award, Philippe and Zaza join a network of winners over the last 27 years, including the likes of HRH The Prince of Wales, conductor Seiji Ozawa, and Japanese artist Yoko Ono.