Marie Khouri
Marie Khouri is a Canadian sculptor and public artist based in Vancouver. She is known for her large scale sculptures incorporating calligraphic and abstract forms.[1][2] Her work includes public installations in Canada and internationally.[3]
Early life and education
Khouri was born in Cairo, Egypt, and spent her early life in the Middle East and Europe before settling in Vancouver, Canada.[3] She studied the arts and sculpture in Paris at the École du Louvre.[3]
Before her career as an artist, she worked as a language interpreter and in finance.[4]
Career
Khouri's career in sculpting began after she moved to Vancouver.[4] Her work developed across both sculpture and design, including jewellery and functional objects.[4]
She has over 25 public installations located in Canada and internationally.[3] These works are commonly commissioned by developers for civic spaces, transportation projects, and architectural settings.[3]
Public art and major works
Notable works include:
- I Love (Baheb) – A sculptural installation exhibited at the Vancouver Art Gallery.[5]
- Le Banc – A sculptural bench created for the Vancouver Biennale.[1]
- Histoire d’O – A sculpture installed as part of the Canada Line public art program.[6]
Artistic style and themes
Some of Khouri’s work draws from calligraphy and makes references to language.[2][5] These sculptural works use flowing shapes that are influenced by Arabic handwriting. [2]
Other works are designed to function as large seating areas and gathering spaces, emphasizing public use.[1]
Exhibitions
Khouri’s work has been presented in exhibitions and in public art galleries in Canada.[1] Her installation I Love was showcased at the Vancouver Art Gallery between 2022 and 2023.[5] It has also been exhibited internationally, including in France and Egypt.[7]
Awards and honors
- BC Achievement Award of Distinction in Applied Art and Design (2023)[3]
- Ordre national du Mérite (Chevalier), France[1]
- Western Living Designer of the Year (Industrial and Fashion categories, 2012)[4]
Public collections
Khouri’s art work can be found in public and institutional collections, including municipal public art programs and transportation authorities in Canada.[6]
References
- ^ a b c d e "Marie Khouri". Vancouver Biennale. Retrieved 18 March 2026.
- ^ a b c "Focal Point: Marie Khouri". Studio Magazine. 2023. Retrieved 18 March 2026.
- ^ a b c d e f "Marie Khouri – Award of Distinction". BC Achievement Foundation. Retrieved 18 March 2026.
- ^ a b c d "Fashion and Industrial Designer of the Year: Marie Khouri". Western Living. 2012. Retrieved 18 March 2026.
- ^ a b c "Marie Khouri – I Love". Vancouver Art Gallery. Retrieved 18 March 2026.
- ^ a b "Histoire d'O – Canada Line Public Art Program". Canada Line. Retrieved 18 March 2026.
- ^ "Marie Khouri at Home: Vancouver Artist". Vancouver Magazine. Retrieved 18 March 2026.