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Deep in the archives of a family-run stone factory in Lebanon, a treasure was collecting dust. Not gold or jewels, but something far more ancient and magical—discarded fragments of stone, each with millions of years of history. This is where our story begins.

Meet Nour Najem and Guilaine Elias, the visionary founders, and Gregory Gatserelia, the master curator, of Fragmenta. On a visit to the Najem Group factory (active since 1981!), Greg spotted these forgotten offcuts and had a lightning-bolt idea. "It was such a pity," he thought. These pieces, carved by skilled artists long ago, were in "purgatory." He decided to bring them back to "heaven."

And so, Fragmenta was born: a dazzling project that invited 49 artists to choose these stone fragments and give them a spectacular second life.

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An Artistic "Resurrection" in a Factory

This wasn't your typical gallery opening. The debut exhibition was staged inside the active factory itself, a brilliantly raw and authentic setting. The journey unfolded across five captivating themes:

1. Contemplation: Pieces that invite a moment of quiet reflection.
2. Spolia: Inspired by the ancient practice of reusing architectural fragments.
3. Craftsmanship: Celebrating incredible hand-made artistry.
4. Raw Materiality: Designs that honor the stone's natural, untouched beauty.
5. Cosmic Portal: Where stone transforms into something almost spiritual.

The selection process was beautifully organic. As Nour explains, it started with friends and "snowballed" as big-name designers joined in. Greg describes it like a "humane society for abandoned pets" - artists would visit and choose the piece that "spoke to them."

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Stones, Stories, and a Very Talented Kid

The passion for stone runs deep. For Greg, it’s the "noble" millions of years of geological history. For Guilaine, it’s the simple joy of pebbles, a game she shares with her children. In fact, her eldest son, Alex, was so creatively gifted that Greg invited him to participate! “He has an imagination that never stops,” Guilaine beams.

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The Heartwarming Results

The standout element wasn’t just the final artwork, but the passionate process. Designer Tara Jane Tabet spent days under the heat, cutting and building piece by piece. Others, like Raed Abillamaa Architects, worked with some of the oldest fragments found.

The result? A breathtaking display where food is served directly on stone blocks and seats are carved from forgotten fragments. It’s a full-circle moment of sustainability and beauty.

Fragmenta is more than an exhibition; it’s a movement. And this is only the beginning! The project is set to travel across Beirut in October, proving that with a little imagination, even the most ancient "waste" can shape the future.

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