Massoud Hayoun

Massoud Hayoun, award-winning author and investigative journalist turned contemporary artist, presents a series of intimate, autobiographical works that pay tribute to his Tunisian and Moroccan-Egyptian grandparents. The works also explore his coming-of-age experiences throughout his stay in Beijing.

Called by master artist Ai Weiwei about Mr. Hayoun's first novel, which Weiwei found "exquisite", their brief conversation prompted Massoud to dig deeper, leading him to immerse himself in painting. These works are the beginning of that conversation. The art organization Mathqaf called him "artist coup de coeur du jour" and described his work as "incredible". He has already been the subject of solo and group exhibitions in the USA, Morocco and Switzerland.

"Massoud's challenge for independence reflects the legacy of his grandparents for their own independence. His desire to speak honestly resonates in these intimate and deeply personal works of art. From investigative journalist to artist, truth is at the heart of Mr. Hayoun's work." ~ Terrell Tilford, Artistic Director.