From Venice to Homs: An Evening with Sara Shamma

Turathuna Foundation hosted a special evening with internationally acclaimed Syrian artist Sara Shamma at Homs First Theater , bringing together art, memory, identity, and the human experience.

The evening explored Shamma’s artistic journey and her participation in the 2026 Venice Biennale through her project “The Tower Tomb of Palmyra.” In conversation with Dr. Lama Muslim Abboud, Chair of Turathuna Foundation’s Board of Trustees, Shamma shared insights into her artistic experience, the story behind her Biennale project, and the relationship between art and cultural memory.

The event was honored by the presence of His Eminence Metropolitan Gregorios Khoury, Metropolitan of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Homs and Dependencies, and His Grace Bishop Martimouthaos Al-Khoury, Metropolitan of the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Homs, alongside priests, artists, academics, cultural heritage experts, representatives of local organizations and associations, and a diverse audience from different generations and backgrounds.

The evening also featured a video presentation about Shamma’s journey and Biennale project, an open discussion with the audience, and an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) experience offering visitors a new way to encounter her artistic world.

The event reflected Turathuna’s commitment to creating spaces in Homs where art, culture, dialogue, and heritage come together.